Zero-thermal-expansion (ZTE) materials are widely used in precision optics, cryogenic equipment and sensors, where even small temperature changes can cause performance problems. Yet creating ZTE materials that also conduct heat efficiently and remain mechanically robust has long been a challenge. Most conventional ZTE materials transfer heat poorly, while ZTE metal matrix composites often sacrifice strength and toughness due to the large amount of brittle negative-thermal-expansion particles they contain.
Bio-inspired copper composite achieves zero thermal expansion and high heat transfer
