3D-printable elastic polymer combines flexibility with high strength
(Photo: EPFL)
July 12, 2026 – Researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne EPFL have developed a new elastic polymer that can be easily 3D printed while maintaining remarkable mechanical strength. Soft polymers often become weaker when stretched, but the new material retains its properties even under large deformations.
This combination makes it suitable for applications such as soft robotics, medical devices, and flexible electronics. The material can also be manufactured in customised shapes through 3D printing without complex post-processing.
The researchers found that the polymer’s molecular structure distributes mechanical stress efficiently, reducing the risk of cracks and permanent deformation. The study demonstrates that flexible materials can also provide high strength and long-term durability.
The study was published on July 10, 2026, in Science Advances under the title ‘Fatigue-resistant and tough double network granular elastomers’.
