NEW PLASTIC/METAL MATERIAL

Scientists have created conductive materials of all kinds, and the differences between them are what have allowed us to create a variety of electronic devices that work across conditions.

But across all of those differences, the conductive materials share similarities. They are made up of atoms or molecules that run in straight, densely packed lines, which scientists thought was required to make sure they could effectively conduct electricity.

In the new study, however, scientists say they have created a new kind of material in which those fragments are messed up, and not in order. It is still able to conduct electricity very well, however.

“From a fundamental picture, that should not be able to be a metal,” said Professor Anderson. “There isn’t a solid theory to explain this.”

The material can withstand being bent around, squashed and formed into a variety of different formations, researchers say. Its creators liken it to “conductive Play-Doh”, in that it can be shaped in various ways and will still continue to allow electricity to flow through it.

The discovery should allow for electronics to be made in new ways, its creators say. For instance, current chip or device design is limited by the fact that metal must be melted into the right shape, which can cause problems for other components – but the new material can be made at room temperatures, and so poses less risk.