Core Viewpoint - The article explores the evolution of materials throughout human history, highlighting their significance in shaping civilization and technological advancements. Group 1: Ancient and Early Materials - The discovery of tools made from volcanic rock by early humans marks the beginning of material use in civilization [3] - Flint was used as a tool for cutting and creating fire, showcasing early human ingenuity in material manipulation [6] - The invention of pottery allowed for food storage and contributed to the development of early urban civilizations [7] - Jade, particularly in ancient cultures, symbolized power and status, reflecting the societal hierarchy based on material rarity and craftsmanship [8][9] Group 2: Industrial Revolution - The Bessemer process revolutionized steel production, significantly reducing the time required to produce steel and increasing its availability for infrastructure [12] - The invention of celluloid provided a sustainable alternative to ivory for billiard balls, leading to broader applications in film and photography [13] Group 3: Electrical and Information Revolution - The development of tungsten filaments in light bulbs greatly improved their longevity and efficiency, making electric lighting accessible to households [16] - The invention of silicon chips laid the foundation for modern computing, enabling the integration of billions of transistors on a single chip [17] - Optical fibers transformed communication by allowing high-speed data transmission over long distances, significantly enhancing global connectivity [18][19] Group 4: AI and Future Materials - Graphene, discovered in 2004, exhibits extraordinary strength and conductivity, paving the way for innovations in electronics and energy storage [25] - Shape memory alloys, such as nickel-titanium, have applications in medical devices and robotics due to their ability to return to a predetermined shape [26] - AI-driven material design is revolutionizing the development of new materials, enabling rapid identification of high-performance candidates for various applications [27][28] Group 5: Speculative Future Materials - Bio-steel, derived from genetically modified organisms, promises lightweight and strong materials for protective gear [32] - Time crystals, which maintain a stable oscillation state, could lead to advancements in precision timekeeping and quantum computing [34] - Dark matter composites may enable anti-gravity technologies, revolutionizing transportation and space exploration [35] Group 6: Conclusion - The article emphasizes the continuous evolution of materials as a reflection of human creativity and technological progress, suggesting that future innovations will further transform society [46]