Experimental determination of material properties for materials subjected to high compressive strain rates

The design, fabrication and operation of a split Hopkinson bar apparatus is described. The theoretical basis for the experimental determination of material properties for materials subjected to high compressive strain rates using the split Hopkinson bar is discussed along with the assumptions made and their meanings. Some preliminary results for a lucite material are used to illustrate the type of information obtained from using the method. Limitations of the method and conclusions are discussed and recommendations are made.