The Response of Hybrid Composite Structures to Low-Velocity Impact

Abstract

The objective of the presented study was to assess the potential of an additional protective elastomer layer in a carbon/glass composite/steel hybrid structure subjected to low-velocity impact. Damage pattern, indentation depth and delamination area were examined and the influence of the additional layer on the absorbed energy investigated. It was found that the energy absorption is decreased in elastomer-containing structures for very low impact energies which results in less external and internal damage. At higher impact energies the elastomer is strongly deformed which leads to more critical surface damage but decreases the damage in the composite structure below.