Experimental and numerical studies of the simultaneous effects of temperature and impact velocity on ballistic behavior of GLARE

Abstract

Fiber metal laminates (FMLs), which are constructed from thin metal sheets interspersed with fiber‐reinforced epoxy, are the focus of this study. Specifically, GLARE 2/1, which features a layer of glass fiber‐reinforced polymer (GFRP) sandwiched between two layers of Al 2024‐T3, is examined for its ballistic properties, particularly in aerospace applications. The effects of temperature and velocity on GLARE's ballistic performance are investigated through ballistic tests and simulations. The tests were carried out using a single‐stage light gas gun for three temperatures and seven impact velocities. The ballistic limit, specific absorbed energy (SAE), and failure modes of GLARE under high‐velocity impacts were analyzed in the investigation. Simulations of the ballistic tests were conducted using the LS‐DYNA hydrocode to examine the failure mechanisms and stress distribution within GLARE panels. The findings reveal that GLARE exhibits its highest ballistic limit at room temperature. Additionally, the SAE of GLARE samples decreases with increasing temperature; for instance, at an initial velocity of 167 m/s, the SAE at 60 and 100°C was reduced by 21% and 46%, respectively, compared to the SAE at room temperature. The simulations indicated that over 50% of the kinetic energy was absorbed by the rear Al 2024‐T3 (Al_2) layer of GLARE.Highlights Ballistic limit of GLARE decreased with increasing temperature. Higher impact velocities led to a plugging failure mechanism. SAE of GLARE reduced as temperature increased. Al_2 absorbed maximum kinetic energy across temperatures and velocities. Simulations showed Al_2 absorbed over 50% of kinetic energy.