Dynamic properties of 3-D orthogonal woven composite T-beam under transverse impact

The quasi-static indentation and transverse impact behavior of 3-D orthogonal woven composite T-beam were investigated with a universal material tester (MTS 810.23) and a modified split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB), respectively. The load-displacement and energy-displacement curves were obtained to analyze the damage of the composite T-beam under three kinds of impact velocities. Finite element analysis which based on unit-cell model of the 3-D orthogonal woven composite and user-defined material subroutine was conducted to calculate the dynamic responses. The good agreement between experimental and FEM results reveals the composite damage mechanisms and energy absorption features of the T-beam with different flange height. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.