High strain rate response of PVC foams

In this study, cross-linked poly-vinylchloride (PVC) closed-cell foams were examined under high strain rate compression loading using a servohydraulic testing machine and a modified Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) apparatus with a steel incident bar and a polycarbonate transmitter bar for strain rates up to 2000 s−1. Three foam densities were examined, viz. 75, 130, and 260 kg/m3. The stress and strain-time history and stress-strain behavior were evaluated. An increase of stress and strain was observed for all categories of foam as strain rate increased. A post impact study was also performed to evaluate the failure modes of the foam cores. A densification band of collapsed cells was the major mode of failure.