Understanding the electrons that hold materials together may help scientists design strong, compact, lightweight and radiation-resistant metals at a lower cost. Using supercomputers to study the atomic structures of nickel and iron—the two main components of stainless steel—researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are exploring ways to improve the quality of metals used in items such as cars, pipelines and nuclear reactors. This research could also help engineers create new metals and alloys that have better structural and mechanical properties than those that are commercially available. The ORNL research team is led by Markus Eisenbach. —Jennifer Brouner
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