Ballistic impact experiments of titanium-based carbon-fibre/epoxy laminates

In this paper, high-velocity impact resistance of lightweight laminates with multi-layers of carbon-fibre/epoxy laminates sandwiched by two titanium alloy skins and aluminium alloy skins was extensively investigated by experiments with a total of 48 impact tests conducted. The ballistic limit of the titanium-based carbon-fibre/epoxy laminate was estimated to be between 241.6 m/s and 257.1 m/s. Impact velocity governed energy absorption and the corresponding damage modes were characterised and identified. The influence of fibre metal laminates configuration on the impact resistance was then experimentally investigated at a fixed impact velocity with full penetration in ten types of laminates. The results also showed that thicker skin and higher number of fibre layers favoured the specific energy absorption in the tested matrix.

Automated summary

This paper extensively investigates the high-velocity impact resistance of lightweight laminates composed of carbon-fibre/epoxy layers sandwiched by titanium alloy skins and aluminium alloy skins. The ballistic limit of the laminates is estimated to be between 241.6 m/s and 257.1 m/s. The impact velocity governs the energy absorption and damage modes. Experimental investigations on the influence of fibre metal laminates configuration show that thicker skins and higher number of fibre layers enhance the specific energy absorption.