Energy absorbing capability of GMT, GMTex and GMT-UD composite panels for static and dynamic loading - Experimental and numerical study

The impact performance of classical GMT (Glass Matrix reinforced Thermoplastics) and its more recent variants with improved structural characteristics obtained by reinforcement with unidirectional (GMT_UD) and plane fabric (GMTex) lamina has been analyzed both from the experimental and numerical simulation points of view. The results of the experimental tests (quasi-static and impact loading conditions) have been investigated thorough comparing the force–displacement and energy displacement diagrams, paying particular attention to the peak load and to the absorbed energy values. Furthermore, important parameters such as damage index, energy profile and energy absorption efficiency have been used to compare the material impact performance. Visual inspection of the perforated specimens has given an insight of the material damage mechanisms and support explanation of the different energy absorption performance between the three considered materials. Finally some repeated impact tests have been conducted in order to point out the material impact performance also from this relevant point of view. The availability of wide amount of experimental results gives the possibility of an assessment of the ability of numerical models developed by means of ABAQUS FE code to represent the actual physical tests. The obtained results have quite good accordance.