An insight into the quasi-static indentation and specific energy absorption performance of glass fiber-aluminum wire mesh hybrid laminates

This study investigates the quasi-static indentation (QSI), three points bending and Izod impact performance alongside with the damage evaluation of pure glass-fiber laminates (GG) and hybrid laminates with aluminum mesh of two configurations (A1 with Al-mesh at the surface layers and A2 with Al-mesh in the middle layers). The energy absorption capacity, bending performance, and impact strength of the hybrid laminates were found to be enhanced in terms of weight ratio. Hybrid laminates exhibited better energy absorption (17.95%) and impact resistance (up to 63.7%). A1 possessed increased ductility and less damage, whereas A2 offered superior bending strength and toughness. The proposed hybrid composites proved to be an effective choice for fields requiring lightweight, energy-absorbing structures.