SEDL / STP / STP864-EB / STP32798S

Impact Resistance of Fiber Composites: Energy-Absorbing Mechanisms and Environmental Effects

Chamis, CC
National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Lewis Research Center, Cleveland, OH

Sinclair, JH
National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Lewis Research Center, Cleveland, OH

Pages: 20    Published: Jan 1985

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Abstract

Energy-absorbing mechanisms are identified and evaluated using several approaches. The energy-absorbing mechanisms considered are those in unidirectional composite beams subjected to impact. The approaches used include mechanistic models, statistical models, transient finite-element analysis, and simple beam theory. Predicted results are correlated with experimental data from Charpy impact tests. The environmental effects on impact resistance are also evaluated. Working definitions for energy-absorbing and energy-releasing mechanisms are proposed and a dynamic fracture progression is outlined. Possible generalizations to angleplied laminates are described.