Influence of Strain Rate on the Flexural Properties of a Wood Flour/HDPE Composite

Abstract

The effect of strain rate on flexural modulus (MOE), and flexural strength (MOR) was studied in a wood flour/high density polyethylene composite. Testing was performed in a three-point bending mode. Four different strain rates were used: 0.01, 0.02, 0.05, and 0.08 (min^-1). The variations of flexural strength and flexural modulus were explained equally well by a linear relationship to strain rate. It was found that the mechanical properties of this material are significantly sensitive to strain rate. Based on statistical analysis, it was inferred that the flexural modulus was strain rate dependent and the sensitivity of MOE was more than that of MOR to strain rate. Relationships between flexural modulus, flexural strength, and strain rate allowing for the adjustment of these properties at different strain rates were also developed.

Keywords

composites wood flour high density polyethylene strain rate mechanical properties.

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