Assessment of residual strength in impacted composite sandwich panels

摘要

Simulation of impacted composite panels and calculation of residual strength after impact is a complex and challenging computational process.Accurate prediction requires the integration of material modelling capability with an explicit finite-element dynamic solution,as well as damage tracking and fracture algorithms.A new computational methodology for assessing impact-related damage and determining residual strength after impact is discussed in this article.Prediction of residual strength in composite panels after impact is challenged by the complexity of disciplines involved.Successful computation requires the integration of composite micro-and macro-mechanics with an explicit finite element solver,damage tracking,material degradation,and fracture.Assessing the behaviour of composites under impact loading is key to certification,especially as the demand for composites is increasing in automotive,aerospace and infrastructures.However,conventional industrial finite element codes have been challenged by the complex behaviour and variety of failure mechanisms in composite structures.