Dynamic Frictional Sliding Along An Interface Between Two Homogeneous Blocks

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to analyze the dynamic frictional sliding that is occurring between two Homalite blocks. The blocks are held together by a compressive load and the sliding is initiated by an impact velocity that is applied to the bottom block. Previously, the main types of sliding observed were crack-like sliding and stick-slip (pulses) sliding. Six different sliding modes were observed: crack-like, transitional trailing pulses, transitional crack-pulse, transitional pulse-train, train of pulses, and growing pulses. Each mode has distinct sliding characteristics that are dependent on the compressive load and impact velocity. Along with this interfacial sliding, there were opening waves observed due to a region of separation at adjacent points along the interface. These regions of separation occur independently of the sliding modes discussed. In addition, crack tip velocities of the leading sliding waves were found to not only be supersonic but also intersonic crack speeds were observed.