Mitigation Research Graphic
Two-dimensional side view of the zero-groove logarithmic obstacles placed within the test section of the shock tube.

A team of undergrad engineers discovered a method that could make materials more resilient against massive shocks such as earthquakes or explosions. The students tested whether cutting three grooves into each side of rectangular obstacle materials would attenuate shock when compared with similar obstacles laid out in a logarithmic spiral but with no grooves.

This research can be used in military and civil applications to design materials and buildings to better withstand high-intensity blasts.

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