Application of TTSP to non-linear deformation in composite propellant

Abstract

A series of constant-rate tensile tests and relaxation tests were conducted to assess the mechanical properties of the hydroxy-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) propellant. The relaxation modulus master curve was acquired using relaxation tests at the linear viscoelastic segment, and stress-reduced time master curves at different strain levels were established to determine whether the time–temperature superposition principle (TTSP) could be used to assess the non-linear mechanical property of the HTPB propellant. Results showed that the mechanical properties of HTPB propellant strongly depend on temperature; the extent of this dependence is enhanced with decrease in temperature, and the TTSP can be used in non-linear segments. With the application of the TTSP, the ultimate strength and the stress–strain curves of constant-rate tensile tests can be predicted at any temperature and strain rate, and the predicted σ–ε responses matched the test results closely, but led to some errors at high temperatures, this is because of some errors in the time–temperature shift factors.