Inspired by the natural architecture of human bone, engineers at Princeton University have developed a new cement-based material that significantly enhances the toughness of traditional concrete. This innovative material resists cracking and sudden failure, making it a promising solution for more durable and long-lasting architectural structures.

The research, led by Professor Reza Moini and Ph.D. candidate Shashank Gupta from Princeton's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, was published in Advanced Materials. The study introduces a unique design that incorporates cylindrical and elliptical tubes within the cement paste. Mimicking the structure of bone, specifically the tubular osteons found in human cortical bone, this design allows the concrete to trap and delay crack propagation. This “stepwise cracking” mechanism absorbs more energy, reducing the likelihood of sudden collapse.

Unlike traditional methods that strengthen concrete by adding fibers or plastics, the Princeton team’s approach focuses on geometric design. By carefully controlling the size, shape, and orientation of the tubes, they achieve a material that is 5.6 times more resistant to damage than standard concrete, without compromising strength.

The use of advanced fabrication techniques like 3D printing allows for precise control over the internal architecture of the material. This method opens up possibilities for creating custom-designed concrete components for various architectural applications, ranging from infrastructure to building façades.