Anisotropic compressive behavior of rigid PVC foam at strain rates up to 200 s−1

Abstract

The elevated strain rate compressive response of closed-cell polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foam at various densities is investigated. Two loading directions, (i.e., parallel and perpendicular to foam rise direction) were considered to investigate structural anisotropy. The elevated strain rates tests (up to 200 s−1) were performed using a customized drop tower device. Engineering stress/strain behavior, energy dissipation, and maximum stress capacity were obtained for each density and compared against each other. Except for the lowest density of 45 kg/m3, strain rate effects were clearly observed through increased compressive strength and plateau stress when loading in the foam rise direction. The strain rate effect is more evident at higher densities. However, no significant strain rate effect was observed when loading perpendicular to the foam rise direction. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed that plastic hinges are the primary deformation mechanism for PVC foam cells. An analytical model has been calibrated using the experimental results and successfully predicted the mechanical response of the foam. Shape anisotropy has been measured employing the SEM images. The analytical approach was also able to predict the foam's anisotropic mechanical response.