Evaluation of Material Strength Properties of High-Density Polyethylene by High-Speed Micro-Indentation Testing

Abstract

High-density polyethylene (HDPE), a crystalline polymer material, is expected to be applied to structural materials for automobiles and airplanes as a substitute for metallic materials because of its light weight and low cost. However, the material strength properties of HDPE under high strain rates and the effect of strain rate on the microstructure during deformation have not been well studied. In this study, we have developed a micro-indentation comparing it with the commercial indentation test apparatus. Using high-speed indentation test, the material strength properties of HDPE in high strain rate deformation were evaluated.