Abalone
STRONG CERAMIC
This surprising shell makes into water, at ambiant pressure and temperature, an ultra strong ceramic. Its structure remains flexible thanks to a super protein which makes it very resistant to shocks.
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Applications
In healthcare, thanks to several studies, mother-of-pearl could be used for bone reconstruction. It contains water-soluble molecules that stimulate the bone activity by acting on bone cell and mineralization.
The most resistant ceramic is made by abalones. Made of microscopic calcium carbonate tiles, they are piled together like bricks. Between tile layers is an adhesive substance rich in protein. Calcium carbonate is a naturally soft material however once the shell got hit, instead of shaking, the tiles slip and the protein stretch to absorb the shock wave. Research is being focused on armour plating and resistant covering for protective outfits.
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