MIT engineers developed "nano stitches" enhancing composite materials' lightness and toughness for building lighter airplanes.

MIT engineers developed "nano stitches" to enhance composite materials' lightness and toughness for building lighter airplanes that save fuel and reduce emissions. Carbon nanotube forests between composite layers act like ultrastrong Velcro, preventing layers from peeling or shearing apart and stopping cracks from spreading. This innovation could lead to stronger, more durable aircraft.