Modeling the impact deformation of rods of a pressed PTFE/Al composite mixture

Finite element simulations have been performed for the impact onto steel anvils of solid rods of a pressed composite mixture of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and aluminum powders. Photographs of the reactive rods prior to significant impact initiation for three previously performed experiments at impact velocities of 104, 222, and 466 m/s have been digitized for comparison with the simulations. Simulations were performed using the Johnson–Cook and PSDam strength models. Parameters for the PSDam model have been previously determined for this PTFE/Al mixture. The results of Instron compression tests and high-rate split Hopkinson bar experiments were used to determine the parameters for the Johnson–Cook model. The Johnson–Cook model produced reasonable agreement with the experimental specimen shape at 104 m/s. PSDam produced reasonable agreement at early times for the 222 m/s experiment.