Mechanics-based model for rapid prediction of low-velocity impact damage in composite laminates

Abstract

A mechanics-based modeling approach is developed to rapidly predict damage in polymer matrix composites resulting from a low-velocity impact event. The approach is incorporated into a computer code that provides an efficient means to assess the damage resistance of unidirectional composite laminates with a range of layup configurations and impact scenarios. It is envisioned that the developed approach will aid in early design and analysis of composite structures where sizing and layup decisions must be made, and evaluating the feasibility of a large number of laminate configurations using numerical approaches such as finite element analysis is prohibitively expensive in practice. Therefore, the goal of the modeling approach is to predict the impact damage size given the laminate configuration and impact scenario. The tool is designed to run quickly (less than 2 min) to allow a large number of design cases to be investigated. The results presented demonstrate that the model is capable of efficiently predicting low-velocity impact damage size, shape, and location within an acceptable accuracy suitable for preliminary design and analysis of composite structures.