Investigation of plate geometry on the crushing of flat composite plates

• Published in: Composites science and technology Vol. 66; no. 11; pp. 1639 - 1650
• Main Authors: Cauchi Savona, S., Hogg, P.J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Elsevier Ltd 01.09.2006; Elsevier
• Subjects: A. Polymer-matrix composites; Applied sciences; B. Mechanical properties; C. Crushing; Exact sciences and technology; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; Laminates; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Technology of polymers; C. Crushing; B. Mechanical properties; A. Polymer-matrix composites; Laminate; Ester polymer; Fiber reinforced material; Epoxy resin; Mechanical properties; Compressive strength; Experimental study; Mineral fiber; Fabrication property relation; Composite material; Plate; Knitted fabrics; Woven material; Glass fiber; Delamination; Crush
• ISSN: 0266-3538; 1879-1050
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compscitech.2005.11.011

The aim of this work was to identify the energy absorbing capabilities of fibre reinforced composites manufactured using glass-fibre multiaxial warp-knit non-crimp fabrics (NCF) for use in low-cost, weight-critical energy absorbing structures. A variety of layups, using polyester and epoxy matrices, were evaluated using a plate crush rig. The plates were tested at varying unsupported widths to identify the stability of the different orientations. It was found that the energy absorbed was dependent upon the stability of the laminates and possible delamination of outer plies during the crush. The different resins appeared to have little influence in the specific crushing stresses (SSCS). Additionally, comparison of the results with the literature for tubes showed that the trends observed for the crushing of plates were comparable.