Transverse impact behaviors of 3D braided composites T-beam at elevated temperatures

Abstract

This paper reports transverse impact behaviors of 3D braided composites T-beam at elevated temperatures. A modified split Hopkinson pressure bar apparatus combined with a self-designed heating device was used. The impact load–displacement curves and impact damage morphologies have been obtained. The impact peak load and total energy absorption of the T-beam under impact loading have been calculated from the curves. It was found that both the elevated temperature and transverse impact velocity influence the transverse impact responses of the T-beam. The responses were more sensitive to the transverse impact velocity than to the elevated temperatures. The results also showed that the failure mechanism changes from brittle failure to ductile failure as the temperature increases. The matrix crack and fragmentation are often occurred in front surface of the T-beam. The fiber breakage in the rib position and the flange were the failure modes in the rear surface.