Finite-element modelling of the impact response of a laminated composite plate

An investigation into the response of a fibre-reinforced composite plate su bjected to a central impact by a blunt-ended projectile, shows that couplin g between the dynamic response and the stiffness degradation due to damage must be accounted for in any model capable of predicting damage: by impact. A numerical model based on the finite-element displacement method that inc ludes the effects of transverse shear deformation and a failure algorithm t hat describes the energy dissipation during the damage process has been dev eloped for the purpose of the analysis. The interaction force between the p rojectile and the plate is modelled as an integral part of the solution alg orithm, thus neglecting the assumption of an initial contact-pressure profi le. Numerical results for laminate deformation are shown to compare qualita tively well with experimental tests. Numerical values for stresses in the p late are computed and the effect of anisotropy on stress and deformation pr ofiles are identified and discussed. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rig hts reserved.