Process parameter effects on cellular structured materials using hollow glass spheres

We investigated the effect of bonding temperature and duration on the microstructure development and energy absorption capacity of consolidated cellular solids, formed from hollow glass spheres. The temperatures were varied between 760 and 860 degrees C for 30 min and the bonding times were varied from 5 to 50 min at 810 degrees C. SEM micrographs were used to study the microstructure development of the cellular solids. These observations revealed the initial bonding points, cell-wall bonding process, and formation of open voids in the microstructure as a functions of bonding temperature and bonding time. Quasi-static uniaxial compressive testing on the cellular solids was performed in conjunction with real-time observation. Taken together, the results suggest that the trends in energy absorption depend on the underlying microstructure of the cellular solids.