Story perspectives

Study Reveals Liquids Fracture Like Solids Under Stress

3/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

Drexel University researchers show simple liquids can fracture like solids when pulled under high stress.
A critical stress near 2 megapascals triggers this solid-like behavior in viscous fluids such as water and oil.
The researchers published the results in Physical Review Letters, highlighting the broader scope beyond complex fluids.
The finding could influence 3D printing, fiber manufacturing, and biomedical engineering by improving understanding of liquid stress.

1 of 1

Story summary

Drexel University researchers show simple liquids can fracture like solids when pulled under high stress.
A critical stress near 2 megapascals triggers this solid-like behavior in viscous fluids such as water and oil.
The researchers published the results in Physical Review Letters, highlighting the broader scope beyond complex fluids.
The finding could influence 3D printing, fiber manufacturing, and biomedical engineering by improving understanding of liquid stress.