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If Superman and Stretch Armstrong produced offspring in some hideous experiment, they might hope to create a new, upgraded iron alloy with super-elastic powers which allow it to keep its original shape even after stretching. Now Japanese researchers have done just that with added bonuses such as better ductility and a change in magnetization, Reuters reports. That may lead to better surgical interventions and even quake-proof structures.

Thin wire made from the new alloy could snake through human arteries and help place stents -- tubes that keep the blood vessels from collapsing. That would allow for better blood flow from the heart to the brain or other areas.

The iron alloy has double the stress level of nickel titanium, which is the current alloy used in heart stents. But unlike future stents made from the new alloy, nickel titanium wire is currently too thick to go into the brain.

http://www.popsci.com/technology/article/2010-03/super-stretchy-iron-alloy-may-help-surgeons-and-quake-proof-buildings