Photoelasticity is used to determine the distribution of stress in a material. It is commonly used when the mathematical solutions get tricky or overly complex. We wanted a STEM based exhibit that would be hands on to allow children to explore the stress distribution of bridges.
With our STEM exhibit children can explore how different weight along the sections of a bridge structure changes the stress points of the bridge. While at your science center, children can select from multiple styles of bridges (Truss, Suspension, Arc, etc), place it between the light source and polarizer and then apply pressure by hand on a sliding rig, thus changing the stress points as they move along the bridge exhibit.
Recommended for this exhibit:
Most exhibits’ assemblies range from $1,500 to $2,500 within the continental US. We are open to creative planning and solutions, please call to discuss the best option for your center.
Most single exhibits ship within the continental US from $300 to $1,000. Save on shipping by bundling.