<p>Tailored control of the pattern forming instability that is initiated through selective dissolution in metal alloys has enabled the production of high-performing nanoporous metals. Nanoporous metals are “forged in fire,” evolving from exposure to harsh environments. This makes them uniquely adapted to extreme conditions with the potential for service in applications that require tolerance to corrosive environments, high-rate mechanical loading, and high-energy irradiation. Nanoporous metals are metastable structures and successful integration into extreme applications requires an atomistic understanding of how nanoporous morphologies evolve under relevant conditions. In this article, we explore our existing understanding of the evolution of nanoporous metals within extreme environments and how that understanding can be used to design mitigation strategies to drive operational longevity.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>