Description:
<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title>
<jats:p>The diametrical crushing strength of an ideal system of compacted particulate material, and the relation between strength and mean compaction pressure depend on the time at which the strength is determined. Strength increases of over 100% during the first hour after compression are attributed to stress relief of the sodium chloride crystals and interparticulate bonds. The effects of elevated temperature, and also humidity, on the strength and physical structure of compacts are evaluated. Relaxation behaviour of compacts containing light liquid paraffin is also investigated.</jats:p>