Dynamic response of epoxy foam structures reinforced with aramid layers subjected to low-velocity impact

Abstract

This study investigates the impact response of epoxy foam structures reinforced with aramid woven fabrics through drop weight tests. These structures are not classical sandwich panels as the fabrics are blended into the epoxy foam. The number of aramid plies and their location are varied, and the influence of the foam density is studied. Low-velocity drop weight tests are conducted. The load–displacement curves, the morphology of damage, the indentation, and the back face signature are analyzed. Results reveal that increasing the number of aramid layers in the middle of the structure reduces the crack propagation and increases the peak load. In addition, adding one layer of aramid at the back face prevents the crack propagation. Finally, the use of several foam densities, with the higher density at the impact face leads to an improved protection capacity.