The effect of impactor on CFRP with toughened interlayers when subjected to low-velocity impact: experiment and numerical analysis

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the effect of impactor on the behaviour of CFRP with toughened interlayers when subjected to low-velocity impact. CFRP with toughened interlayers is different from a conventional CFRP laminate since it enhanced the toughness of CFRP laminate. In this study, CFRP with toughened interlayers laminate was subjected to low velocity impact by using a drop weight testing apparatus developed in the laboratory. Four sizes of impactor head diameter were used with three different masses. The impactor was suspended at a specified height and released for a free fall drop. The impact event was then reproduced numerically. Based on the results, it was observed that the degree of damage was increased as the mass of impactor increased. However, smaller head diameter of impactor produced greater damage. Hence, smaller contact area produces greater local deformation as opposed to larger contact area that generates global deformation. Numerical analysis is also capable to reproduce the impact event.