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Sunday, November 22, 2009

Photo: Legendary Swords' Sharpness, Strength From Nanotubes, Study Says


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A Damascus saber from the 17th century shows off famed intricate patterns formed during the forging of the legendary swords. A team of scientists says it have found nanotubes and nanofibers that may explain the renowned sharpness and quality of these blades—but some experts say the research doesn't do much to solve the mystery of how the swords were made.

Photograph courtesy Alexander Dietsch/Nature