FURI | Spring 2020

Analysis of Fracture Speed Under Changing Temperatures

Poly-methyl methacrylate (PMMA) is a brittle material at room temperature, but experiences property changes when under temperature and tensile load. The research team utilized this change in mechanical property for analysis and drew conclusions on various elements of the polymer. The PMMA plates were coated with aluminum to allow electric current to be displaced on its surface. With this electric current, the resistance was measured as a function of time to find the related fracture speed. The results gathered from this research have broad implications and areas of application, from space exploration devices to consumer hardware products.