:: Advanced Composites Letters on-line ABSTRACTS ::

Volume 9, Issue 4, 2000
Prediction of the Compression-After-Impact Strength of Thin-Skin Stiffened Composite Panels

Y. Zhuk, C. Soutis^* and I. Guz

Department of Aeronautics, Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, Prince Consort Road, London SW7 2BY, UK

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed

(Received 3/00; accepted 5/00)

ABSTRACT

The compressive response of thin-skin stiffened composite panels with low velocity impact damage is examined. The finite element method together with the Soutis-Fleck fracture mechanics model is used to predict damage initiation in the form of fibre microbuckling in the 0° plies, propagation and final failure; in the model the impact damage is replaced with an equivalent circular or elliptical open hole. Theoretical results are compared to experimental data and found in good agreement.

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