NIOSH Mining Laboratory
Dynamic Materials Testing Laboratory |
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| Researcher conducting experiment in the Dynamic Materials Testing Laboratory |
The Dynamic Materials Testing Laboratory was developed to characterize the response of rock to explosive loading. Here, researchers measure properties under dynamic loads ranging from low-energy acoustic waves to intense stress pulses created by a gas gun to tests driven by full-scale explosive charges. Sophisticated electronics are available for monitoring dynamic response at sampling frequencies up to 10 MHz. The laboratory building, established in a structure originally used as a Nike missile silo, is a revetment with thick concrete walls and floor and is situated in a remote area east of Spokane. Exterior locations are suitable for explosive charge tests and full-scale diamond drilling of samples. Overall, the laboratory is ideally situated for conducting a wide range of very dynamic tests with little risk of disturbing the neighborhood.
Site: Reardan Auxiliary Facility
Equipment: 60 mm Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar