Low Velocity Impact and Compression-After-Impact Response of Z-Pin Reinforced Core Sandwich Composites

In the current work, sandwich composite structures with innovative constructions referred to as Z-pins, or truss core pins, are investigated. The Z-pin core sandwich construction offers enhanced transverse stiffness, high damage resistance, and multi-functional benefits. The present study deals with analysis of low-velocity impact (LVI) of Z-pin sandwich plate, and experimental studies of compression-after-impact characterization. Experimental studies on LVI of Z-pin sandwich plate considered in the analysis have been reported in Vaidya, et al., 1999, “Low Velocity Impact Response of Laminated Sandwich Composites with Hollow and Foam-Filled Z-Pin Reinforced Core,” Journal of Composites Technology and Research, JCTRER, 21, No. 2, Apr., pp. 84–97, where the samples were subjected to 11, 20, 28, 33, and 40 J of impact energy. The LVI analysis is developed with regards to Z-pin buckling as a primary failure mode (and based on experimental observations). A finite element model accounting for buckling of the pins has been developed and analyzed using ABAQUS. This paper also presents experimental results on compression-after-impact (CAI) studies which were performed on the sandwich composites with Z-pin reinforced core “with” and “without” foam. The experimental LVI tests were performed in Vaidya, et al., 1999, “Low Velocity Impact Response of Laminated Sandwich Composites with Hollow and Foam-Filled Z-Pin Reinforced Core,” Journal of Composites Technology and Research, JCTRER, 21, No. 2, Apr., pp. 84–97. The results indicate that selective use of Z-pin core is a viable idea in utilizing space within the core for sandwich composites in structural applications. [S0094-4289(00)02904-2]