There’s an interesting article in Computerworld which reports on work of a team of German researchers who have used a 3D printer from Nanoscribe GmbH to create nano-scale micro structures out of ceramic and polymer which mimic the kinds of honeycomb-like structures found in nature (such as in bone and wood).

The researchers have found that using a laser-powered stereolithography technique they can create micro trusses and shells that prove to be as strong as steel. So far, these researchers have only been able to print items on the micro-meter scale, but hope to be able to someday use this technique to create super-strong materials that can be used in a practical way.