Turn T-shirt into armor

Scientists at the University of South Carolina in the US have found a way to turn ordinary cotton t-shirts into armor.

The study involved US, Chinese and Swiss scientists.

The secret of the new material is the combination of carbon in cotton and Bo (the third hard material on earth). These T-shirts are very lightweight yet firm with Boron carbide, the material used in the tank cover.

Dr. Li Xiaodong, a research fellow, said: "This study has changed the concept of ultra-light, ultra-powerful, super-efficient materials that will open up unexpected opportunities in many ways. The field, especially for security, military. "

The large picture shows the cotton fibers attached to Bo forming the boron carbide.

The scientists started with smooth, white T-shirts, cut into thin strips and soaked in Boron's solution.

These strips are then separated from the solution and heated in the oven. Heat transfers ordinary cotton fibers into carbon fibers, which react with Boron to form Boron Carbide.

The result is lightweight t-shirts that are more durable and tougher than conventional shirts, but still provide flexibility. This would allow this new material to be used extensively in the design of bulletproof vests.

"We have overcome the most important technical barrier, which is the brilliance of Boron Carbide, which, by virtue of this combination, keeps boron carbide retaining hardness but is superplastic," said Dr Li .

Even new materials can prevent ultraviolet rays from entering cars and planes.