Characterization of UHMWPE Laminates for High Strain Rate Applications

Abstract

The research presented in this thesis represents an effort to characterize the properties of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). As a composite of polymers, the properties of UHMWPE are time-dependent. It is desired by research sponsors to know the properties of the material at high strain rates, in order to simulate the use of these materials in computer models. Properties believed to be significant which are investigated in this research are the tensile properties of lamina and laminates, and the interlaminar shear properties of laminates. The efficacy of using time-temperature superposition to shift tensile properties of the composite is investigated, and a novel apparent shear strength test is proposed and demonstrated. The effects of processing the material at various temperatures and pressures are also investigated.