Cork Helmet project of the University of Aveiro receives Portuguese Cork Association Innovation Award

This distinction honors the work of the researcher Ricardo Sousa of the Department of Mechanical Engineering (DEM) of the University of Aveiro (UA). Ricardo Sousa captivated the Portuguese Cork Association (APCOR) with his research on the use of cork in the coating of helmets.

Ricardo Sousa’s research team has proven that, in relation to the spherovite used exclusively by all world helmet manufacturers, the presence of cork in the inner shell of the helmets not only gives the material greater capacity to absorb an impact but remains intact in the case of multiple blows on the head of the motorcycle rider. The technique is already patented and awaits the interest of the industry to conquer, mainly, motor sports that are subject to tight security measures.

«To receive this award is an honor and a stimulus for me to continue investing in the area,» says Ricardo Sousa. «Cork is a Portuguese ecological product that moves much of the economy. Therefore, it makes sense that innovative applications are sought for this material and that industry and academia come together in the search for new products and ideas, «he says.

See more in: http://uaonline.ua.pt/pub/detail.asp?lg=pt&c=35173