Comparison of the Instrumented Falling Weight Impact Response of Polypropylene Composites Reinforced by Continuous and Discontinuous Fiber Mats

Abstract

The temperature dependent instrumented falling weight impact (IFWI) behavior of glass mat reinforced thermoplastic polypropylene (GMT-PP) composites with continuous (GM-C) and discontinuous (GM-D) fiber mats were studied at three different temperatures: −40°C, room temperature (RT) and +90°C. Apart from the mat type the matrix viscosity and the fiber/matrix adhesion were also varied in the GMT-PP samples. It was established that the mat type is that parameter which controls the fracture and failure behavior. The high perforation impact resistance of GM-C compared to GM-D is due to an efficient stress redistribution via the continuous fibers and rovings within the mat. Effects of the matrix and interface variations could not be detected during IFWI. The testing temperatures also affected the IFWI characteristics marginally, especially in case of GM-C reinforced PP.