Geodynamics Research Facility

This GSL facility has evolved over the last three decades to support survivability and protective structures research. Experimental devices include three gas-driven loaders that provide peak-applied forces of 0.45, 2.3, and 8.9 MN in either a quasi-static mode or a dynamic mode with controlled rise times between 3 and 100 msec. Several pressure vessels having peak pressure limits of 7 MPa to1 GPa accommodate cylindrical specimens with diameters ranging from 152 to 51 mm. Quasi-static servo-controlled experiments are performed with the Facility's 600-MPa pressure vessel and 8.9-MN loader. Cubical specimens can be loaded to peak stress levels of 70 MPa under true 3-D stress states. In the new split Hopkinson pressure bar facility, specimens 12.5 or 19 mm in diameter can be dynamically loaded while applying hydrostatic confining stresses between 0 and 200 MPa.