Validating a Hashin‐Based Shell Model for LVI of Woven E‐Glass/Epoxy Laminates

ABSTRACT Low‐velocity impacts can cause extensive, often hidden damage in woven E‐glass/epoxy laminates. This work characterizes 100 × 100 × 2 mm, 10‐ply woven E‐glass/epoxy plates subjected to 4–35 J drop‐weight impacts (5 kg, 20 mm hemispherical tup) and validates a cost‐effective Hashin‐based finite‐element model in ABAQUS/Explicit. Experiments recorded force–time and energy–time histories and quantified ply‐by‐ply damaged areas from optical images using ImageJ. The calibrated shell‐element (SC8R) model with mesh convergence reproduced force and energy histories (absorbed energy within 3.5% of tests), realistic cross/diamond damage morphologies, and the quasi‐linear growth of total damaged area (0.83 × 10 ³ to 3.96 × 10 ³ mm ² from 4 to 35 J). Simulations captured the transition from matrix cracking at low energy to delamination and fiber failure at higher energies. The validated shell‐based Hashin framework offers a fast, reliable tool for impact‐tolerance assessment and preliminary laminate sizing, reducing dependence on extensive drop‐weight testing.