Ejecta Size Distribution Resulting from Hypervelocity Impact of Spherical Projectiles on CFRP Laminates

The size distributions of ejecta resulting from projectile perforation of CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic) laminates were examined. The shape of the ejecta cone and the debris cloud was observed using a high-speed video camera. The ejecta fragments were collected from the test chamber after impact experiments. The number of fragments ejected on the front side of the target was altered by the impact velocity. Conversely, regardless of impact velocity, the number of fragments ejected on the rear side of the target was almost the same. The results were also compared with the results of NASA ' s breakup model. The slope on the cumulative number distribution curve of characteristic length, Lo was almost the same as that of NASA ' s breakup model. The area-to-mass ratio distribution of ejecta fragments from CFRP laminates ranged within and above the area surrounded by 3a of NASA's breakup model. (C) 2013 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.