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Potential applications of the natural design of internal explosion chambers in the bombardier beetle (Carabidae, Brachinus)

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). / 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. / by Changquan Lai. / M.Eng.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:MIT/oai:dspace.mit.edu:1721.1/62606
Date January 2010
CreatorsLai, Changquan
ContributorsChristine Ortiz., Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dept. of Materials Science and Engineering., Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dept. of Materials Science and Engineering.
PublisherMassachusetts Institute of Technology
Source SetsM.I.T. Theses and Dissertation
LanguageEnglish
Detected LanguageEnglish
TypeThesis
Format124 p., application/pdf
RightsM.I.T. theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. See provided URL for inquiries about permission., http://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/7582

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