The Implementation of Used Food Cans and Polyurethane Foam to Increase Energy Absorption in Impact Attenuators of Formula Student Racing Cars

Formula Student competitions require several standard safety devices, one of which is the impact attenuator. The impact attenuator is installed at the front of the car to absorb energy during a collision, thereby protecting the driver from direct impact. While the shapes and materials of impact attenuators vary widely, many are costly and have limited availability. This study tested the feasibility of using used food cans as an alternative material for impact attenuators. Four variations were tested to determine which combination of materials offers the best energy absorption. The variations included an aluminum blanket alone, stacked cans, a combination of stacked cans and blankets, and a combination of stacked cans with blankets plus polyurethane foam. The analysis was conducted based on compressive testing results using a Universal Testing Machine. The study found weaknesses in the use of incorrect hole designs and overly thin partitions. The most optimal energy absorption, 6,969.2 J, was achieved in the fourth variation, which included polyurethane foam. The results suggest that used food cans have potential as an alternative material for impact attenuators.