Abstract

A high strain rate perforation split Hopkinson pressure bar (P-SHPB) test apparatus was developed for the quantification analysis of energy expenditure in the penetration or perforation mechanics, and dynamic fracture failure processes of laminated graphite/epoxy composite. This paper described the basic features of the P-SHPB system for perforation testing, characterized of high strain rate, and single mode as well as mixed modes of fracture failures of laminated composites. The results showed that the energy expended in a perforation process depends on the thickness of the laminate samples, the impact parameters and the incident stress delivered to the composite. The failure modes in graphite/epoxy composite exhibited four regions of damage mechanism and characterized on the basis of energy absorbed, impact energy, loading force, sample stress and strain rate. Perforation limit velocity was estimated by extrapolating the (impact velocity)² and crack length curve to a zero-damage length and determining the velocity value.

 

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