42
2) Dynamic
stress
Figure 3.4 - Schematic of axial dynamic compression on the A-CNT composites.
3.3.1. StrainSweep
Typically the first test done when conducting DMA, the strain sweep will
reveal the strain-dependent response of a material. This is done by choosing a
constant frequency and temperature and then applying a stable oscillating strain to
the sample. The viscoelastic response of the material at that strain is recorded, and
the instrument will continue on to the next strain. A strain sweep is essential as it
will reveal the linear region of deformation for a sample, which is the region where
further dynamic testing should be conducted in order to assuredly obtain
meaningful data. The data presented in this section is conducted at room
temperature and at a frequency of .5 Hz.