Dynamic perforation and compression tests of PMMA for a wide range of temperatures - experimental and preliminary numerical analysis

Experimental tests were carried out on poly(Methyl Methacrylate) (PMMA) in order to define its mechanical behaviour over a wide range of temperature. To reach high strain rate, perforation tests were performed within a wide range of temperatures using a high-performance oven, from room temperature to 130 °C, above the glass transition temperature Tg . In addition, the results were confronted with compression tests previously obtained. Based on experiments, the temperature transition between fragile and ductile was defined. The material became fully ductile above 118 °C inducing no cracking and debris during the perforation process. The yield stress evolution as function of strain rate for various temperatures was modelled by using the cooperative model. The model predictions were in agreement with experimental data. Two material models developed by Richeton and Nasraoui were analysed, the latter was then implemented into the FE model to simulate perforation tests for a wide range of temperatures and strain rates. It was observed that the coupling strain rate-temperature is a key factor to predict the structure behaviour not only in terms of material behaviour but also in terms of dynamic failure.