The new material set to improve road safety
Engineers from the University of Newcastle have developed a new material which has the potential to change the future of road safety.
The 'metallic foam' is made from standard aluminium alloys and a by-product of volcanic eruptions, the result of which is a lightweight, strong and cost effective material which effectively absorbs energy and acts as a cushion under impact.
Associate Professor Thomas Fiedler and a team from UON's Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment hope that, with further development, the metallic foam will be implemented in road safety barriers, reducing risk and ultimately fatalities.
Related news
- Grassroots communities share storytelling to preserve environmental gems
- Rare colour shifting discovered in iconic Australian frog
- Hydro Harvester secures $1.9 million for WA farm trial
- Student-led design creates legacy for Newcastle City Campus
- National trial spotlights cultural safety in health care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.