Dilatant

A dilatant is a material that becomes thicker and more resistant when stressed or stirred. Unlike liquids that flow easily, dilatants increase in viscosity when force is applied, making them feel firmer or more solid under pressure. Common examples include cornstarch mixed with water or certain plastics. This behavior occurs because the particles within the material push apart when force is applied, increasing resistance. Dilatants are interesting in physics and materials science because they demonstrate non-Newtonian behavior, meaning their flow properties change depending on the amount of stress they experience.