Design and properties of a rate-dependent 'dynamic ligament' containing shear thickening fluid

A 'dynamic ligament' device that exhibits a discontinuous, rate-dependent tensile response is developed and characterized. The device, based on a shear thickening fluid (STF) and flexible ribbons enclosed in elastomeric tubing, exhibits low resistance to extension at rates below 10 mm s⁻¹, but when stretched at 100 mm s⁻¹ or higher resists with more than tenfold higher force. A link between the rheology of the STF and the tensile performance of the dynamic ligament is presented to explain the rate-dependent response. Visualization experiments show evidence of void formation and dilation in the STF during high rate extension. (paper)