Novel initiation threshold experiments for composite energetic materials

In the project samples of composite energetic materials will be damaged with the intent of introducing homogenously distributed microstructural damage. The project will explore whether the greatest degree of damage homogeneity is achieved by using high or low deformation rates in combination with high or low ambient temperatures; and in doing so will assess the applicability of Time Temperature Superposition concepts to damage evolution. In addition to this experiments will also be conducted to assess whether mechanical damage is first discernible as a degradation in mechanical properties, or as a reduction in reaction threshold parameters; an important consideration from the perspective of non-destructive condition monitoring.