Development of Reusable High-Molecular-Weight–High-Density Polyethylene Crash Cushions

Abstract

The development of a family of low-maintenance, reusable crash cushions that employ energy dissipaters made of high-molecular-weight–high-density polyethylene is described. This “smart” energy dissipating thermoplastic is self-restorative and reusable and possesses excellent hysteresis characteristics. The design process involved quasi-static and impact scale model experiments, finite-element modeling, and a full-scale crash testing program conducted according to the guidelines of NCHRP Report 350. A treatment of all of these design components is presented. It is demonstrated that scale model experiments and finite-element modeling are cost-effective tools whose employment can minimize the number of costly full-scale crash tests required to qualify devices as acceptable for use on the National Highway System.