Temperature effect on impact behavior of laminated composite plates

The main objective of this study is to investigate the thermal impact behavior of unidirectional laminated composite plates composed of glass fabrics and epoxy matrix under room (approx. 20°C) and high (40°C, 60°C, 80°C and 100°C) temperatures. In addition, mechanical properties of glass/epoxy composite plates are determined under mentioned temperature conditions. And also, compression after impact (CAI) strength of impacted plates is determined under room temperature. Impact tests are performed by using Fractovis Plus impact test machine. Fourteen impact energies from 5 J to 70 J are selected for impact tests. The plate dimensions are of 100 mm x 100 mm for impact test and 150 mm x 150 mm for CAI tests. Two stacking sequences as [0°/90°/0°/90°]S and [0°/90°/45°/-45°]S are used to investigate the fiber orientation effects. A numerical analysis is also carried out by using 3DIMPACT finite element code and compared with the experimental results in impact tests. The contact force between the impactor and the composite plate, and the maximum deflection at the center of the composite plate are plotted as function of time and damage area in interfaces is determined numerically. Finally, the energy absorbed capability, mechanical properties and CAI strength of the composite plates based on polymer are decreased by increasing temperature. The contact force and contact time increases by increasing the temperature while the deflection of the plate and damage area in interfaces decrease. Keywords: Thermal impact behavior, penetration and perforation thresholds, mechanical properties, Compression after impact strength