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  "path": "/news/2026-02-discovery-reveals-metal-extreme-conditions.html",
  "publishedAt": "2026-02-13T13:48:23.000Z",
  "site": "https://techxplore.com",
  "tags": [
    "Engineering"
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  "textContent": "There's a reason why blacksmiths fire metals before hammering them. Heat always softens metal, making it more malleable and easier to reshape. Or does it? In a surprising new study, Northwestern University engineers discovered that, in extreme conditions, heat doesn't soften pure metals—it strengthens them.",
  "title": "Rule-breaking discovery reveals new way to strengthen metal in extreme conditions"
}