Strain rate dependent compressive mechanical properties and dynamic failure of pre-strained epoxy syntactic foam

Syntactic foam is increasingly used in engineering applications. This paper studies the dynamic mechanical properties and failure of syntactic foam, with emphasis on influence pre-strain embedded collapsed microballons. The epoxy (ESF) different levels successfully produced using a confinement sleeve technique. initial pre-strained ESF are tested compared from quasi-static to high strain rates about 1000 /s. deformation processes monitored speed photograph techniques. stress–strain relationships show rate dependence. presents good deformability. results shear localization, regardless pre-strain. shows macro elastic brittle behaviour, fracture surface consists partially deformed localized regions. pre-strain, however, microballons surrounded by flow like behaviour severely matrix, which would be associated thermomechanical coupling process. study indicates deformability energy absorption capacity.