Dynamic failure of a sandwich structure subjected to an in-plane axial impact

Abstract

Dynamic response of sandwich structures subjected to in-plane axial impact loading is investigated experimentally and numerically. A comprehensive set of impact test results on sandwich panels with various configurations is presented. Experimental observation is made using high-speed cameras to closely examine the detailed temporal responses of the sandwich columns before the collapse of the entire structures. It is found that the failure mode is significantly affected by the core thickness. Finite-element based simulation is also performed to have a better understanding of the failure mechanism. Discrete cohesive zone model (DCZM) is utilized to model delamination failure at the interface between the skins and core. The interfacial failure is driven by dynamic buckling of the skin, competing against the bonding strength at the interface.