Dynamic Compressive Strengths of Polymeric Composites: Testing and Modeling

The modeling and testing methods for dynamic compressive strength of unidirectional fiber-reinforced polymeric composites were reviewed and the results discussed. In modeling, attention was focused on the fiber microbuckling model
and the kink band model, and how they were extended to account for the effect of strain rate. A quantitative comparison of the microbuckling model and the kink
band model was made in predicting compressive strengths of S2/8552 glass/epoxy off-axis specimens. Challenges in high-strain rate testing of 0ı composites using
the split Hopkinson pressure bar were discussed. The approach in using off-axis compressive strength data to determine the longitudinal compressive strength of unidirectional composites was presented. By using a viscoplasticity model to describe the rate-dependent tangent shear modulus, the microbuckling model was extended to predict the dynamic compressive strength of composites. From the model predictions and experimental data, the influence of shear stresses on the compressive strength of composites was highlighted.