Controlling Dynamic Torsion Loading

Two new Kolsky bar techniques were developed to address a lack of capability in existing torsion Kolsky bar experiments. The side-impact torsion Kolsky bar provides for controllable duration, amplitude, and shape of the incident torsion wave, allowing for more ideal conditions during dynamic torsion experiments. The technique provides an ideal platform to study dynamic friction as well as dynamic shear of a material. The technique makes use of soft pulse shapers to convert longitudinal loading into torsional loading. The technique also brought forth a secondary technique to allow combined dynamic compression and dynamic torsion for soft materials. The combined loading was applied to study both shear properties and the friction behavior of aparticle composite, which was imaged using x-ray phase contrast imaging. The same composite was studied with different surface conditions on the side-impact torsion Kolsky bar to discover the differences in behavior brought about by the choice of manufacturing method. The composite showed different friction behavior to metallicmaterials, and exhibited much more shear deformation during the experiment. The composite was also prone to surface evolution, leading to complex friction behavior.