The material created by the researchers is lighter and stronger than metal. The new foam-like material could be a game-changer for helmets, body armor, and automobile and aerospace parts.
The new material has an extreme energy absorption capability, which could reduce fuel consumption.
He wanted to create a material that was even more energy-Absorbing than current car bumpers and helmet padding. The typical materials used for these protective devices don't perform well at higher speeds.
The research team was able to add strength and reduce weight by using liquid crystal elastomers.
It held up against strikes from objects that weighed between four and 15 pounds, coming at speeds of up to 22 miles per hour. The tests were limited to 22 miles per hour because of the machines' limitations, but the team is confident the padding could absorb even greater impacts.
The team is exploring a collaboration with a helmet company to design, fabricate, and test helmets for athletes and the military.
The results were published in a journal.
More information: Seung‐Yeol Jeon et al, Synergistic Energy Absorption Mechanisms of Architected Liquid Crystal Elastomers, Advanced Materials (2022). DOI: 10.1002/adma.202200272 Journal information: Advanced Materials Citation: Shock-absorbing material could lead to stronger, lighter and safer helmets and vehicles (2022, March 8) retrieved 8 March 2022 from https://phys.org/news/2022-03-shock-absorbing-material-stronger-lighter-safer.html This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.
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