Work

Electroresponsive Aqueous Silk Protein As “Smart” Mechanical Damping Fluid

Year: 2014

Type: article

Abstract: Here we demonstrate the effectiveness of an electroresponsive aqueous silk protein polymer as a smart mechanical damping fluid. The aqueous polymer solution is liquid under ambient conditions, but is reversibly converted into a gel once subjected to an electric current, thereby increasing or decreasing in viscosity. This nontoxic, biodegradable, reversible, edible fluid also bonds to device surfaces and is demonstrated to reduce friction and provide striking wear protection. The friction and mechanical damping coefficients are shown to modulate with electric field exposure time and/or intensity. Damping coefficient can be modulated electrically, and then preserved without continued power for longer time scales than conventional "smart" fluid dampers.

Source: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces

DOI: 10.1021/am501242w

Authors: Rod R. Jose, Roberto Elia, Lee W. Tien, David L. Kaplan

Institution: Tufts University

Language: English

Topic: Vibration Control and Rheological Fluids

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,500

Funder: National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering