Abstract:
In this work, the response of a bonded CFRP composite panel, manufactured by
bonding two laminates together, to impact, penetration and perforation by a
high-velocity steel sphere has been studied. The response of a relatively thick
(c.a. 12 mm) laminate has been compared to similar data from [1] where
relatively thin monolithic laminates were impacted by the same type of
projectile. It was found that the ballistic performance of the system was
increased over the impact energy range of interest when compared to these
similar relatively thin composite laminates. Furthermore, both the energy
absorbed per-unit-thickness of laminate and the level of damage as measure by C-
Scan was similar when the panels were perforated at normal and oblique
incidence. This raises the prospect of reducing experimental testing at oblique
angles, if the behaviour at normal incidence is known.
