Scientists create world's first floating titanium

RMIT researchers 3D-printed a Ti-6Al-4V alloy lattice with hollow beams filled with polyurethane foam. The structure remains afloat even after cracks and node failures, with density increasing only by 5.9-7.3%.

• 4x4x4 lattice of 10 mm cells, beam walls 0.2 mm
• Foam fills 2.5-4 mm channels, water passes between beams
• Samples floated in fresh water for over two months
• Specific strength higher than HDPE and 316L steel