A review of some empirical equations for high strain rate behaviour

The review refers to applications of materials to nuclear reactor technology where materials may be subjected to seismic conditions, plant generated hazards and catastrophic conditions in nuclear fuel flasks. The available data for a range of steels are examined in detail with brief reference to aluminium. Data are presented for examination at high strain rates, in the range 102 to 105/s, and an attempt is made to establish an accurate model to represent the response of the structure to high velocity deformation. An accurate empirical equation, involving strain, is the requirement for specifying the behaviour of the material at high strain rate. (author)