Low-velocity impact response of laminated plates

Abstract

An analysis is presented to predict the response of anisotropic laminated plates to low-velocity impact by a rigid object. Transverse shear deformation in the plates is accounted for using Mindlin's theory and the governing equations are solved using Fourier integral transforms, assuming infinite planform dimensions for the plate. The contact area is assumed to vary with time, and the complex contact problem is replaced by a loading history that is based on available experimental data from instrumented impact tests. Computed plate response is used to predict initial failures, including back surface fiber/matrix failures, directly below the impact site and internal delaminations. Analytical predictions are shown to compare well with available experimental results and finite element solutions.