Abstract

Polymer mechanics depend on the superposition of pressure, temperature, and strain rate; underlying polymer structure; and processing and aging. The objective of this research is to understand the pressure, temperature, and rate effects on mechanical properties in polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). Time-temperature-pressure effects are investigated using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), quasi-static compression, split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB), and large volume press. These techniques allow for independent variation of pressure, strain rate, and temperature. The results of these experiments are compared using time-temperature-rate superposition. Additionally, a study by Bat’kov, et al. revealed a dramatic decrease in PMMA shear strength above 6 GPa under shock loading. Planar shock loading using gas gun drive was used to understand this phenomenon, in contrast to Bat’kov, et al. who used explosive loading. The first lateral manganin gauge experiment over 6 GPa using gas gun loading revealed a similar trend to that observed by Bat’kov.