Research project: Parameterisation and optimisation of impact and post-impact performance of composites for airframe light weighting
Carbon fibre reinforced plastics are inherently prone to damage due to out-of-plane impacts. Even barely visible impact damage can cause large reductions in the strength of the composite. Hence, how do the component properties influence the fracture mechanisms and impact performance of the composite? Are there any measurable parameters that can be used to determine whether a material has good or bad impact properties? The outcomes of the results will be incorporated into finite element simulation tools for predicting impact and post-impact failure performance.