Diagnostic Use of Digital Image Correlation in High-Speed, Explosive Experiments

Abstract

Digital image correlation (DIC) was used as a diagnostic tool in two series of scaled explosive experiments. In this paper, we focus on the use of DIC as a tool to obtain full-field displacement measurements during high-speed events. From the displacement records we were able to obtain full-field strains, strain-rates and velocity data. The experiments discussed in this paper involved explosive charges submerged in aquarium-like structures, one side of which consisted of a 6061-T6 aluminum plate. In each experiment, the outside of the aluminum plate was patterned so that it met the requirements for use with the DIC system. Two different plate preparation techniques were used in the experimental series and both resulted in the acquisition of quality data. While both techniques were effective, each proved to have unique advantages. The details of plate preparation and a discussion of the performance of each method are included in the paper. The displacement, strain and velocity data are discussed and the output capabilities of the DIC system are demonstrated. In addition to the high-speed, transient data acquired during the deformation events, static, surface-profile measurements of the post-test, deformed plates were made using the DIC system. A discussion of the static measurements is also presented.