June 16, 2025
CINCINNATI (WKRC) — A new type of head-protective material developed by researchers at The Ohio State University College of Medicine may significantly reduce the risk of concussions, according to a recent study.
The material, which combines cornstarch and aerogel insulation, could be used in military headgear, construction helmets, or contact sports protection.
Dr. John LaRocco, the lead author of the study, explained that his team created sheets of the material by baking cornstarch into aerogel, forming two layers with the cornstarch in the middle.
“We largely made sheets of this material, essentially two layers with the cornstarch in the middle,” said LaRocco.
The research team tested the material by launching high-speed tennis balls against it and found that it absorbed about 70% of the impact under optimal conditions. It also provided better protection against blunt force trauma compared to aerogel alone.
“The other one that we did is we blasted it with a magnetic launcher to see if the magnetic projectile, a small steel pin, would go through both layers,” said LaRocco. “The aerogel with the cornstarch proved a good bit more resilient.”
The team behind Project Knockout is now seeking companies or investors interested in bringing this innovative product to market.