Effects of the Interlaminar Reinforcement Process and the Metal Volume Content on the Dynamic Responses of Fiber Metal Beams

ABSTRACT An accurate analysis of the damage mechanisms of carbon fiber/ultra‐thin stainless‐steel beams (CUSBs) under low‐velocity impact conditions is important for ensuring the operational safety of structural components. In this work, CUSBs with different configurations were prepared by incorporating multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)‐modified adhesives and altering the sequence of carbon fibers and metals within the laminate. Drop weight impact tests were subsequently conducted on the CUSBs. The effects of the interlaminar reinforcement process and the metal volume content on the dynamic responses of the CUSBs were investigated by combining two‐dimensional digital image correlation (2D‐DIC), finite element analysis (FEA), and high‐speed imaging. The results demonstrated that increasing the metal volume content, the failure patterns of the CUSBs changed from delamination throughout the entire specimen to localized buckling. Moreover, the SEA exhibited a remarkable enhancement of 333.3% when the metal volume content was increased by 10.1%. Meanwhile, the combined effect of the MWCNTs and chemical corrosion significantly reduced the extent of damage to the CUSBs under low‐velocity impact. The low‐velocity impact response of CUSBs was improved through the aforementioned methods, making them a cost‐effective and impact‐resistant alternative for engineering requirements, especially for aerospace applications.