A QUASI-STATIC PENETRATION MODEL FOR COMPOSITE LAMINATES

A quasi-static model was developed to simulate the penetration process of composite laminates. The penetrator was blunt-ended. A series of static punch tests were conducted to characterize the load-displacement relation during penetration. The damage mechanisms were identified by DIB enhanced X-radiography and microscopic observation on sectioned specimens. The major damage modes were found to be delamination and plugging. An axisymmetric finite element analysis was performed to simulate the penetration process. An effective modulus scheme was adopted in the present analysis. Comparison of punch curves showed good agreement between testing and modeling.