Thermomechanical properties of polymers at high rates of strain

-1 were achieved when testing specimens and this rate was obtained using a split Hopkinson pressure bar. A substantial number of preliminary tests were conducted in order to obtain a suitable specimen size which was then used in the temperature measurement process. Quasistatic, intermediate and high strain-rate tests were performed; the last utilised the radiometer for temperature measurement. An Eyring plot was constructed from which fundamental values for activation volumes and enthalpies were obtained. Full descriptions of the testing techniques used have been included and a brief photoelastic analysis has been carried out on a partially deformed specimen which shows molecular alignment