Potential applications of the natural design of internal explosion chambers in the bombardier beetle (Carabidae, Brachinus)
Name
714359552-MIT.pdf
Description
Full printable version
Size
5.87 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
08ad451ec288addea580fca9d9a73f18
Author(s)
Lai, Changquan
Advisor(s)
Christine Ortiz.
Date Issued
2010
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
The Bombardier Beetle (Carabidae, Brachinus) has a unique form of defense mechanism which involves the explosive mixing of hydroquinones and hydrogen peroxide in its internal explosion chambers and using the resultant high pressure to spray out a heated corrosive fluid containing p-benzoquinones in a controlled direction [1][2]. Three salient features of the internal explosion chambers were found to be instrumental in withstanding the high pressures generated from the explosive mixing and protecting the Bombardier Beetle's internal organs [3]. Using simulations performed with finite element analysis, it was discovered that such design features employed by the Bombardier Beetle are suitable for incorporation into helmet designs. An in-depth analysis of the market potential of such a design with respect to the motorcycle helmet market is presented along with implementation strategies and proposed business plans.
Description
Thesis (M. Eng.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Materials Science and Engineering, 2010.
This electronic version was submitted by the student author. The certified thesis is available in the Institute Archives and Special Collections.
Cataloged from student submitted PDF version of thesis.
Includes bibliographical references (p. 118-122).
Subjects
Materials Science and Engineering.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Materials Science and Engineering
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