Strain-rate master curves for a PBX and binder

Abstract

Many studies have been performed, using several different experimental techniques, to characterise the mechanical response of Polymer Bonded Explosives (PBX). Here we draw together a range of techniques, namely Dynamic Mechanical Analysis, quasi-static compression, Hopkinson Bar and ultrasonics, to produce a master curve. This was performed with a UK PBX and its binder, and the shift-factors required to produce a consistent master curve were consistent with previous findings, and furthermore implied that a simple linear conversion between strain-rate and frequency is acceptable, the constant of proportionality being 2π. This has been cited before as a consequence of the Cox Merz rule. The benefit of this approach is that a wider range of mechanical testing data can now be employed in code validation. © 2012 American Institute of Physics.