Dropweight impact tests have been performed on thin CFRP panels stiffe
ned with blade or T-stiffeners and comparisons made with similar plain
panels. The change in structural response of the panels is governed b
y the amount of damage sustained during impact. The increase in panel
stiffness is associated with the suppression of backface cracking but
larger areas of delamination. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All right
s reserved.