A team of researchers has developed a new type of metallic structure that won’t sink even after being punctured and submerged. The team made extremely hydrophobic, or water-averse, aluminum plates by etching microscopic, air-trapping patterns onto the metal’s surface with short laser bursts. Connecting two plates parallel to each other with a plastic post, created an extreme hydrophobic structure by permitting more air to be trapped in the small space between the plates. The new technique could be useful to build life rafts, buoyant clothing, floatable ships and vessels in the future.