Estimates of Ta strength at ultrahigh pressures and strain rates using thin-film graded-density impactors

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We present results from an experimental technique used to estimate the strength of Ta at extreme pressures (150 GPa) and strain rates (${10}^{7}\phantom{\rule{0.28em}{0ex}}{\mathrm{s}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$). A graded-density impactor (GDI) was fabricated using sputter deposition to produce an approximately $40\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{m}$-thick film containing alternating layers of Al and Cu. The thicknesses of the respective layers are adjusted to give an effective density gradient through the film. The GDIs were launched with a 2-stage light gas gun, and shock-ramp-release velocity profiles were measured over timescales of $\ensuremath{\sim}10$ ns. Results are presented for the direct impact of the film onto LiF windows, which allows for a dynamic characterization of the GDI, as well as from impact onto thin ($\ensuremath{\sim}40\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{m}$) sputtered Ta samples backed by a LiF window. The measurements were coupled with mesoscale numerical simulations to infer the strength of Ta, and the results agree well with other high-pressure platforms, particularly when strain-rate, microstructural, and thermodynamic-path differences are considered.