Dynamic compressive response of a developed polymer composite at different strain rates

Compressive mechanical response of a developed polymer composite material over a wide strain rate range of 0.0001/s-8000/s is investigated. The developed polymer composite material shows the following stress-strain relation under high rate compressive loading: linear elasticity to a high yield stress, softening behavior with a slight stress decrease, plateau stress accompanied by a large plasticity and densification with a stress increase. Rate dependency of mechanical properties is revealed quantificationally, which follows a power law function. By designing the impact energy (or initial loading rate) in experimental tests conducted by split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB), the deformation-to-fracture process related with the inputted strain energy density or with deformation strain during a dynamic loading is observed through the post-test analyses. The ductile damage and brittle fracture characteristics as well as the tolerant cracking mechanisms are illustrated. This work is full of interest to develop a light-weight transparent protective polymer composite material against a high-speed impact loading.