Development of Smart Speed Bump Using Non-newtonian Fluid

Abstract

In this study, a smart material applicable to speed bumps was developed using low-cost starch and water-based suspensions, and their properties were investigated. Viscosity and shear stress according to the shear rate was measured by a rheometer to observe shear thickening behavior according to starch concentration. The shear thickening phenomenon and applicability to speed bumps were identified macroscopically via drop weight test and bike driving test, measuring the vibration after impact with a driving speed of 5-25 km/h. As a result of the viscosity measurement, shear thickening occurred after the shear thinning region at the beginning, and the critical strain causing the shear thickening phenomenon decreased as the concentration of starch increased. Also, the viscosity and shear stress increased significantly with the increase of the starch concentration. As a result of the drop weight test and the bike driving test, the suspension was changed to a solid-like state in a short time, and the impact energy was absorbed in the fluid. The shear thickening phenomenon easily occurred as the concentration of the fluid and the applied impact (velocity) increased. Therefore, it can be proposed the development of a smart speed bump material that operates in the range of 5-25 km/h with a Non-Newtonian fluid based on water and starch.