Dynamic material properties for numerical modelling of impact behavior of light-alloy structures

This study presents tensile testing results for ZE10 magnesium and 6111-T4 aluminum alloys at different strain rates. For crashworthiness applications an understanding of material behavior at relevant strain rates is needed as well as constitutive equations suitable for use with numerical simulation tools. The mechanical properties were determined from tensile test using flat sheet specimens and recurring to different test techniques: servo-hydraulic machine and a tensile-loading Hopkinson bar. The results were used to compare different mechanical properties and to validate constitutive equations intended to provide a mathematical description of strain rate dependence. The Cowper-Symonds equation was examined.