Results from an experimental investigation on the mechanical behavior of un
idirectional fiber reinforced polymer composites (E-glass/vinylester) with
30%, 50% fiber volume fraction under dynamic uniaxial compression are prese
nted. Specimens are loaded in the fiber direction using a servo-hydraulic m
aterial testing system for low strain rates and a Kolsky (split Hopkinson)
pressure bar for high strain rates, up to 3000/s. The results indicate that
the compressive strength of the composite increases with increasing strain
rate. Post-test scanning electron microscopy is used to identify the failu
re modes. In uniaxial compression the specimens are split axially (followed
by fiber kink band formation). Based on the experimental results and obser
vations, an energy-based analytic model for studying axial splitting phenom
enon in unidirectional fiber reinforced composites is extended to predict t
he compressive strength of these composites under dynamic uniaxial loading
condition. (C) 2001 Kluwer Academic Publishers.