Blast & Impact

SwRI investigates and studies the nonlinear response of materials and structures. A special emphasis is placed on responses to large deformations at high strain rates, often to failure. The staff uses an integrated approach to problem solving, effectively combining experimental, analytical, and computational techniques to understand and meet client needs. Research activities include fundamental investigations, applied studies and analyses, and developmental studies. Typical applications include armor and antiarmor, penetration mechanics, armor mechanics, counterproliferation, physical security, demilitarization, safety studies, accident post-mortem analyses, containment studies, transient loads and structural response analyses, dynamic materials characterization, and state-of-the-art analytical and computational modeling.

• Computational Mechanics
• Ballistics & Explosives Engineering
• Ballistics & Explosives Range
• High-Rate Test Laboratory (Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar Apparatus)

Workshop

A Short Course on Penetration Mechanics