The sudden implosion of the Titan submersible has led to many theories as to how it happened. According to researchers at the University of Houston, the most likely reason was the shape and the metal used.
According to NewsNation, a paper submitted to Proceedings of the National Academy of Science indicates after studying simulations of the implosion that shape and metal were likely the key reasons for the implosion. Submarines, which are spherical, are designed to evenly distribute the pressure throughout the ship. Submersibles are designed the same way but are much smaller and often go to depths where most submarines cannot go. Titan though was not spherical but cylindrical in design and held passengers. The news report indicates that the scientists say a cylinder shape would work but any imperfection in the metal would lead to uneven pressure distribution. Titan was made of carbon fiber and titanium. Unlike steel, carbon fiber is more subject to wear and tear that would allow for this type of catastrophe.
An official investigation is still ongoing and likely will not issue a report until the end of this year.
Source:
Whiteside, Steph. “Titan Submersible Likely Imploded Due to Shape, Carbon Fiber: Scientists.” NewsNation, 2 May 2024, www.newsnationnow.com/travel/missing-titanic-tourist-submarine/titan-imploded-shape-material-scientists.
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