Crashproof containers to protect fragile goods

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Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for High-Speed Dynamics, the Ernst-Mach-Institut in Germany, have developed a new type of crashproof container for transporting fragile, or potentially volatile goods. The containers can withstand a heavy impact from outside and even explosions from within. Ordinary sheet-steel containers are generally dented or completely destroyed by such an impact, resulting in damaged goods.

The crash-proof container has two protective layers mounted one on the outside and one on the inside of a conventional steel container. One layer absorbs extreme shocks, while the other supports the sheet steel.

The damping material used is “polymer concrete” developed in-house. This mixture of epoxy resin, corn starch and natural fibres is slightly porous and can absorb the energy of an explosion or impact better than any rigid material. If the container is for transporting explosive materials, the damping layer is fitted on the inside. And if the polymer concrete is needed to protect against damage from outside, it is attached to the outer skin.

The fibre composite layer required to reinforce the sheet steel is then fixed to the inside of the container wall. This layer can absorb tensile forces more than five times as great as those absorbed by steel, and can withstand the high pressures produced by an explosion. As a result, the container retains its shape.

“By carefully selecting the right type and combination of damping and reinforcing materials, the high-protection containers can be tailored to specific needs,” says designer Christoph Mayrhofer. Containers can also be retrofitted.