In the field of metamaterials—engineered materials with tailored microstructures—the dominant pursuit has long been “stronger is better.” These synthetic materials often mimic lattice structures to maximize stiffness and strength, but this traditionally comes at the expense of flexibility. Now, MIT engineers have broken new ground by developing a metamaterial that is both strong and stretchable, challenging a long-standing trade-off in materials science.

The innovation, detailed in Nature Materials, centers on a “double-network” design inspired by hydrogels. Hydrogels achieve their stretchiness and toughness by combining two polymer networks—one stiff, the other soft. Adapting this idea to metamaterials, the MIT team engineered a structure consisting of rigid struts interwoven with softer, spring-like coils, both printed from a plexiglass-like polymer using ultra-precise two-photon lithography.

Hospital surfaces are known hotspots for dangerous bacteria, contributing to the spread of healthcare-associated infections. But a new innovation from scientists at the University of Nottingham and University of Birmingham could help stop infections before they start: a germ-killing paint.

Researchers developed an antimicrobial coating by blending chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX)—a widely used antiseptic found in mouthwashes and skin cleansers—into commercially available epoxy resin. This simple yet effective formula turns everyday surfaces into powerful barriers against harmful microbes like MRSA, E. coli, Candida, and more.