A traditional split-Hopkinson pressure bar system has been modified by the
addition of ZK60A magnesium alloy pressure bars in order to increase the
resolution of data when examining specimens of low-density, high-density and
ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. It was found that the low density of
the ZK60A allowed a decent increase in transmitted pulse amplitude, whilst its
relatively high yield strength afforded long-term reliability of the system.
The accuracy of data obtained from the fitted strain gauges was verified with
the use of a high-speed video camera, and was found to be an excellent match.Comment: Will be shortly submitted to 'Polymer Testing
