Simulation of impact response of multi-layered panels composed of bonded and unbonded plies

Abstract This paper presents an investigation into low velocity impact response of different configurations of resin bonded and unbonded layups of glass fabric composites for armour application. A numerical simulation was developed using the finite element code LS-Dyna to model the impact response at low velocities. The numerical results have been validated by comparison with results of impact tests on epoxy-bonded glass fibre-reinforced plastic plates with all edges fixed. Further impact testing of composite panels with various lay-up configurations have been performed using two different types of support: all edges fixed and with the panels mounted on clay foundation with all edges free. Experimental results show that a combination of unbonded flexible and adhesively bonded rigid composite lay-ups, which has a lower weight than fully bonded panels, yields comparable levels of energy absorption.