Stronger by Design

What dangers do firefighters face, what makes a bullet proof vest so strong, and does any of this relate to custard? This show looks at the engineering behind some of the most amazing materials that keep us safe when we’re in danger.

We look at the fabrics that protect firefighters from flames and water, how a woven material can stop a bullet, how many materials astronauts need to stay safe on a spacewalk, and, seriously, why is custard important? Introducing concepts including staying safe, forces, and materials.

Booking this show includes one week's access to the show, three questions and a challenge to help spark further thinking and a discussion, and a lifetime subscription to our OpenUpScience magazine, a free, fortnightly, six-page magazine filled with facts, puzzles, quizzes, and experiments that can all be done at home.