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Using Non-Newtonian Fluids To Fill Potholes

Posted by samzenpus on from the no-standing-zone dept.

sciencehabit writes in with a link about a group of students who have come up with an interesting idea about how to fill potholes. "Non-Newtonian fluids are the stars of high school science demonstrations. In one example, an ooey-gooey batter made from corn starch and water oozes like a liquid when moved slowly. But punch it, or run across a giant puddle of it, and it becomes stiff like a solid. Now, a group of college students has figured out a new use for the strange stuff: filler for potholes."

3 of 260 comments (clear)

  1. Re:Wonderful idea ... by c0lo · · Score: 5, Funny
    Another idea: let's use pitch - it maybe not a non newtonian fluid (but again, it may be... just haven't had enough time to check), but it is a fluid nonetheless.

    Now, because it tends to stick on the tires (and the use of mats tends to be expensive over time), I suppose we can mix the pitch with sand and/or fine gravel before filling in the holes - should keep the pothole filled for some years without the need of revisiting it... what a boon for the taxpayers. (hmmm... I think I'm going to patent this)

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  2. Re:More Patents by Eponymous+Hero · · Score: 3, Funny

    of course! benzykllul...lolo...konoleum chloride! why didn't i think of that?

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  3. Re:Seems inferior to the current solution. by SomeJoel · · Score: 4, Funny

    There's no counter argument to that.

    There's always a counter argument.

    If you fill the potholes, property values would go up, and with them property taxes. I am firmly against your plan to raise taxes. You must be some sort of democrat.

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