Ultrasonic Tube Guides Matter Through Air Using Sound
The 8-centimeter prototype uses sound waves to transport liquids and gases without the need for physical pipe walls.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Materials Science
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Researchers at the University of Helsinki have unveiled a prototype ultrasonic tube that utilizes sound waves to guide liquids, gases, and powders through the air without physical barriers. This research-stage device eliminates the need for pipe walls to prevent surface contamination.
Why it matters
By removing physical boundaries, this contactless transport method prevents substances from sticking to container surfaces during transit. The study suggests potential applications for handling sensitive or volatile materials that are otherwise difficult to contain.
The 8-centimeter prototype uses an array of 256 miniature ultrasonic transducers to emit 40-kilohertz sound waves. The device consumes 50 watts of electricity to maintain the acoustic field required for material guidance.
The players
University of Helsinki
A research-intensive institution focused on advanced physical science and material manipulation.
Public University of Navarre
A Spanish academic institution collaborating on acoustic field research.
University of Michigan
A major public research university contributing to the collaborative development of the ultrasonic system.
The details
The device generates a controlled acoustic field that exerts forces on matter to confine it to a specific path in mid-air. By precisely adjusting the timing of the ultrasonic waves, researchers can bend or redirect the flow of liquids, gases, powders, and plasma. This contactless manipulation allows for the movement of substances without the risks of friction or surface adhesion found in physical piping.
Timeline
October 28, 2026: The research findings were published in the journal PNAS.
The Tech Race
This development follows a trend of acoustic manipulation research aimed at replacing mechanical contact systems. It pushes the boundaries of spatial control for matter, building on prior work in acoustic levitation and confinement.
This technology is currently in the research stage and not yet available for industrial or consumer use. Future iterations will focus on connecting modular units in series to determine if the system can function over longer distances.
The takeaway
The research highlights a shift toward contactless, wall-less fluid dynamics for sensitive materials. Observers should track upcoming results from the research team as they attempt to connect multiple modules in series to extend the range of the device.
Further reading
Explore the latest developments in Materials Science to understand the shifting landscape of laboratory-grown and engineered matter.
Source note: This article includes information reported by New Atlas.
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Would you trust a contactless ultrasonic system to transport hazardous substances instead of physical pipes?
