Numerical Modeling on Low Velocity Impact on a Foam Core Sandwich Panel

Abstract

This paper introduces a kinetic model to simulate a foam-core composite sandwich panel impacted by a solid semi-sphere. A modified Hashin failure criterion, which consider failure modes of fiber breakage, matrix cracking and matrix crushing, are implemented into the model analysis by using a self-developed VUMAT subroutine. Cohesive elements with zero-thickness are used in the composite laminates model and quadratic nominal stress criterion is used to predict the delamination initiation during the impact. A crushable foam model is used for foam core. The time history curve of contact force is obtained and shows a good correlation with the experimental data.