Type of Document	Thesis
Author	Roquer, Maria Isabel
Author's Email Address	maria.roquer@gmail.com
URN	etd-02272008-052745
Title	Characterization of Energy Absorbing Materials for Blunt Trauma Reduction
Degree	Master of Science
Department	Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, Department of
Advisory Committee	Advisor Name Title Okenwa Okoli Committee Chair
Keywords	Polyurethane Foam Impact Blunt Trauma Composite
Date of Defense	2007-11-21
Availability	unrestricted
Abstract The current research studied the idea of introducing energy-absorbing polymers – specifically high-density viscoelastic polyurethanes – to reduce the blunt trauma from residual impact energy. This work investigated the material properties of viscoelastic polyurethane foams and the efficacy of the addition of an energy absorbing material to protective garments for reducing blunt trauma under low-velocity impact. The research also provided a methodology for testing composite plates backed by soft materials during low-velocity impact tests. The thickness of the backing material was proven the most influential factor in energy absorption during impact. Finally, using optimization tools, a suggested thickness and bonding condition was given for the implementation of viscoelastic foam in protective garments.
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