Effects of Temperature on the Energy-Absorbing Characteristics of Redwood

摘要

Redwood is used as an impact energy-absorbing material in the plutonium air transportable (PAT) package. To function properly the redwood must retain its properties over a wide temperature range. Since data were not available, an experimental program was conducted on 3-inch cubes of redwood over the temperature range of -40 to 230 exp 0 F (-40 to 110 exp 0 C). The specific energy, average crushing stress, and percent compression at bottoming are presented for the 22 specimens tested. Average values show an approximately 10% decrease in the specific energy and average crushing stress for a temperature rise from 70 to 230 exp 0 F (21 to 110 exp 0 C); and an approximate 30% increase in these quantities for a decrease from 70 to -40 exp 0 F (21 to -40 exp 0 C). 10 figs. (ERA citation 04:004091)