SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1977
STP26956S

Impact Damage in Graphite-Fiber-Reinforced Composites

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Theoretical and experimental studies are presented on the failure modes in graphite-fiber-reinforced composite plates subjected to low-velocity impact. Influence of the following parameters is studied theoretically or experimentally or both: fiber and matrix properties, fiber orientation, stacking sequence, and laminate thickness. A quasi-dynamic approach is used to predict theoretically the influence of the noted parameters on the impact response of composite plates. A previously developed approach is used and extended to predict the time-dependent surface pressure and its distribution in a generally orthotropic target impacted by a body of revolution. The triaxial stress state in the composite target (assumed to be generally orthotropic) is determined using a finite-element computer program. These stresses are used with failure criteria for generally orthotropic solids to determine the extent of impact damage. To verify predictions of the impact-induced failure modes, ball-drop tests are conducted on circular composite plates incorporating different fiber-resin combinations, fiber layups, and stacking sequences. Types of graphite fibers used in the experimental program include Thornel 300, Modmor II, and Celion GY-70. Fiber layups investigated include unidirectional, 2:1 bidirectional, 1:1 bidirectional, and tridirectional (pseudo-isotropic).

Author Information

Greszczuk, LB
McDonnell Douglas Astronautics Company, Huntington Beach, Calif.
Chao, H
McDonnell Douglas Astronautics Company, Huntington Beach, Calif.
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Details
Developed by Committee: D30
Pages: 389–408
DOI: 10.1520/STP26956S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-4690-7
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-4490-3