Brazilian disc testing of a UK PBX through the glass transition temperature

POSTER

Abstract

Previous research at the Cavendish Laboratory has shown a change in failure mechanism from that of intergranular to transgranular when PBX Brazilian disc specimens are tested below the glass transition condition of their binder system. The current study builds on this early work, illustrating how the strengths of the samples change as a function of temperature. The increase in strength at low temperatures is identified with the stiffening of the polymer binder as the glass transition condition is approached.

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Authors

  • David Williamson

    • University of Cambridge

  • Stuart Palmer

    • University of Cambridge

  • W.G. Proud

    • Fracture and Shock Physics, SMF Group, Cavendish Laboratory, JJ Thomson Ave., Cambridge, CB3 0HE
    • University of Cambridge
    • University of Cambridge, UK
    • Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, J.J. Thompson Avenue, CB3 0HE

  • Rebecca Govier

    • AWE