Post-impact residual high strain rate compressive properties of carbon fiber laminates

The purpose of the present study is to investigate the residual high strain rate compressive properties of cross-ply carbon fiber laminates after drop-weight impact. The tested laminate is divided into four quadrants and specimens are extracted from each quadrant for high strain rate compression testing using a split–Hopkinson pressure bar. The testing is conducted in the strain rate range of 1000–1450 s ⁻¹ . A comparison between pre- and post-impact carbon fiber laminates subjected to high strain rate compression suggested that there is a maximum decrease of 76.1% and 71.6% in the peak stress and absorbed energy of the laminate, respectively, at high strain rate compression. Microscopy was conducted on the failed specimens to determine the failure mode. Extensive delamination observed at the impact point causes significant decrease in compressive strength and energy absorption of the laminate.