Torsion tests of thermosetting resins at impact strain rate and under quasi-static loading

Torsion tests are traditionally used to provide basic data for the characterisation of the mechanical properties of metallic materials under shear. This paper gives details of these tests when applied to thermosetting resins. Three commercially available epoxies have been tested under quasi-static conditions and at impact strain rates using a Hopkinson torsion bar apparatus. The tests highlight the difference in behaviour between conventional unmodified epoxies and modern tougher formulations.