Damage failure analysis of CFRP / Al composite multi‐cell tubes under multiple loads

Abstract Damage poses constraints on the preset performance of materials and structures. To gain a deeper understanding of the damage patterns of composite multi‐cell tubes once damaged, a meticulous analysis of the damage characteristics of tubes with transverse damage was conducted using a combination of experimental and finite element simulation techniques. Furthermore, axial compression tests were performed on transversely damaged tubes to thoroughly investigate the influence of damage on the mechanical properties of tubes. Building upon this foundation, finite element simulation techniques were employed to exploratively study the impact of transverse damage under transverse compression, as well as the morphology of axial damage and its potential influence on the mechanical properties of hybrid multi‐cell tubes. The study found that although transverse damage caused a certain degree of performance degradation in the hybrid tubes, they still exhibited significant energy absorption capabilities. Axial damage, on the other hand, triggered strain hardening mechanisms within the material, resulting in an increase in energy absorption capacity by 26.9% and 5.26% under transverse and axial compression, respectively. This research sheds light on the damage mechanisms of hybrid multi‐cell tubes under complex loading, laying theoretical and experimental groundwork for designing structures with enhanced safety margins against multiple loads. Highlights Damage patterns of hybrid multi‐cell tubes under various loading conditions. Transverse damage affects its axial compressive performance to a certain extent. Damage does not affect the trend of the damaged tube's performance curve. The damaged tube still exhibits significant energy absorption characteristics. Axial damage can improve its performance to a certain extent.