Low-Velocity Impact Behavior of Aluminum-Fiber/Epoxy Laminates: A Comprehensive Experimental Study

Abstract

Considering many potential applications of fiber reinforced metal laminates (FMLs) in sensitive structures, it is necessary to understand their mechanical behavior under impact loads. In this study, low velocity impact tests based on ASTM D7136 have been conducted on FMLs made of 1050 aluminum sheets and various types of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) layers; namely E-Glass, Kevlar 49, and carbon T300 plain woven in the epoxy resin. Projectile energy, fiber type and the number of successive impacts are selected among important parameters that can affect the performance of FMLs. In particular, the effects of these parameters on the absorbed energy, contact force, front and rear face damage areas, central deflection and permanent deformation of FMLs have been investigated. For determining the damage area and central deflection of the specimens, an image processing method is adapted.

Evaluation of Force-Time Changes During Impact of Hybrid Laminates Made of Titanium and Fibrous Composite

“…In observed case, insignificant force fluctuations indicate to the lack of significant loss of composite plate rigidity. Other authors of studies [21,24] presented f-t curves illustrating forces reductions in P m area reaching several tens of percents of maximum force. Such significant reductions of forces may indicate to fibres cracking as a result of impactor penetration and metal cracking (perforation).…”

“…On the basis of the review of obtained curves and data available in literature it has been found that the shape of f-t curve for titanium -composite laminates does not differ from the shape of f-t curves obtained for other types of laminates and for conventional composite materials [20,21]. The curve consists of force growth section, achievement of maximum force and stable reduction of force.…”