An apparatus for generating a giant electrorheological (ER) effect includes an upper high voltage electrode and a lower high voltage electrode, the upper high voltage electrode and the lower high voltage electrode each covered with a water-absorbing material and have water absorbed thereon. The apparatus also includes a fluid channel formed by layers and positioned in a gap between the upper high voltage electrode and the lower high voltage electrode; a pressure sensor positioned at one of the high voltage electrodes; a pump to flow silicon oil through the fluid channel; and a high voltage source configured to apply a voltage to the upper high voltage electrode. A method for generating a ER utilizes the apparatus.