Spall strength of liquid copper and accuracy of the acoustic method

We investigate spallation in liquid copper at high strain rates induced by planar shock loading with classical molecular dynamics simulations. Spallation simulations are performed at different initial temperatures, shock durations, and shock strengths. Loading may have pronounced effects on spall strength. The acoustic method for deducing spall strength and strain rate from free surface velocity histories is discussed in detail and compared to direct simulations. The effects of temperature rise induced by shock wave, tension attenuation, sound speed, and density on the accuracy of the acoustic method are examined; the contributing factors to errors are identified; and the modifications to the choice of sound speed and density are proposed to improve the accuracy of the acoustic method.