The E3M Lab utilizes a split-Hopkinson bar for performing high strain rates tests at strain rates on the order of 1,000 /s, as well as direct impact tests to induce even higher loading rates. Tests can be performed in tension, compression, or direct shear. The specimen of interest is placed between two bars, the incident and transmitter bars. Pressurized gas is used to accelerate a striker bar and impact the incident bar, generating a stress wave that travels down the bar and loads the specimen. A portion of the wave is transmitted through the specimen and into the transmitter bar, while the remainder is reflected back in the opposite direction along the incident bar. This allows for the specimen to be loaded under dynamic force equilibrium at high strain rates, enabling the full stress vs. strain material behavior up until fracture to be determined.