Energy-Absorption Capability of Composite Tubes and Beams

Abstract

In this study the objective was to develop a method of predicting the energy absorption capability of composite subfloor beam structures. Before it is possible to develop such an analysis capability, an in-depth understanding of the crushing process of composite materials must be achieved. Many variables affect the crushing process of composite structures, such as the constituent materials' mechanical properties, specimen geometry, and crushing speed. A comprehensive experimental evaluation of tube specimens was conducted to develop insight into how composite structural elements crush and what are the controlling mechanisms. In this study the four characteristic crushing modes, transverse shearing, brittle fracturing, lamina bending, and local buckling were identified and the mechanisms that control the crushing process defined. An in- depth understanding was developed of how material properties, affect energy- absorption capability.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 1989
Accession Number
ADA233515

Entities

People

  • Gary L. Farley
  • Robert M. Jones

Organizations

  • Virginia Tech

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aircrafts
  • Composite Materials
  • Energy Absorbers
  • Failure Mode And Effect Analysis
  • Finite Element Analysis
  • Fuselages
  • Geometry
  • Laminates
  • Materials
  • Materials Processing
  • Materials Science
  • Materials Testing
  • Mechanical Properties
  • Mechanics
  • Modulus Of Elasticity
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Two Dimensional

Fields of Study

  • Materials science

Readers

  • Reinforced Composite Materials
  • Structural Dynamics.