Studies on the Ballistic Impact of Composite Materials
Abstract
The dynamic compressive behavior of unidirectional composites consisting of representative continuous and discontinuous filament reinforced specimens has been investigated. Principal emphasis has been placed on a steel- epoxy system for which a fabrication procedure yielding specimens of high quality and consistency has been developed. Tests at various strain rates were conducted using a conventional Tinius Olsen machine and a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar System. Results indicating the influence of volume fraction of reinforcing material in the steel-epoxy specimens on strain rate sensitivity are obtained. The apparent existence of a transition region in strain rate sensitivity as the volume percent of reinforcement increased has been noted. Evidence has also been obtained on the mode of failure for the steel-epoxy specimens as a function of strain rate and volume percent of reinforcement. For the aluminum-nickel specimens a shear mode failure based on rotation and lateral motion of the 'discontinuous' reinforcements was observed while the fiberglass specimens exhibited a brush-like failure. The failure characteristics of composites under low velocity impact were studied using an air gun assembly developed under this program. A simple method of predicting failure modes and critical velocities from the strain rate data is proposed for the steel-epoxy specimens.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0863202
Entities
People
- C. Allen Ross
- E. R. Jones
- G. E. Nevill Jr.
- R. I. Sierakowski
Organizations
- University of Florida