An analysis of the impact behavior of hybrid composite materials

Abstract An analysis of the energy absorbed in a hybrid composite, viz., a graphite/epoxy laminate containing plies of a third phase material, when subjected to an impact loading is presented. Calculated elastic strain energies at maximum impact load are compared with measured fracture initiation energies. A number of hybrid composite configurations are considered, incorporating PRD-49, glass and nylon fibers as the third phase reinforcements, in various ply orientations.