Science · 1 October 2026 · From issue 47

Hierarchical crystalline organic-inorganic framework enabling high-modulus toughening in nacre

Hard crystal pins between mineral layers let shellfish nacre stay stiff and resist cracking at once.

Hang Chen, Hao Yan et al.

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Butterfly wing patterns team up with flapping flight to trick predators about their motion.
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A new sulfur-based salt builds carbon triangle shapes more safely than old explosive methods.
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