Dynamic fracture in CFRP laminates: Effect of projectile mass and dimension

The diverse mechanical properties and geometric configurations of the projectiles usually cause challenges to the accurate damage prediction of the carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) laminates. In this study, the mass and dimension of rigid projectiles are considered to explore their influence on the damage behaviors of CFRP, including dynamic deformation, fracture pattern, failure, etc. Experiments of different projectiles impacting on CFRP laminates are carried out, and a wide range of projectile kinetic energy (from 4.1 J to 548.4 J) are considered. The high-speed photography and non-invasive detection technique are used to capture dynamic fractures in CFRP laminates. Besides, a validated progressive damage numerical model is established for further investigation. The result indicates that the projectile dimension is associated with the penetration and delamination mode of CFRP, while the projectile mass affects dynamic deformation.

Automated summary

This study investigates the influence of mass and dimension of rigid projectiles on the damage behaviors of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) laminates. Experimental impact tests and numerical modeling are conducted, revealing that projectile dimension is related to penetration and delamination mode of CFRP, while projectile mass affects dynamic deformation.