Static deflection prediction of damaged glass fiber-reinforced metal laminated composite and experimental validation

This study examines the influence of damage on the stiffness characteristics of synthetic fiber (Glass)-reinforced metal laminated composite panels through static deflection analysis. The fiber-metal laminate (FML) structural panel deflections are obtained computationally via a mathematical model using third-order kinematics in the framework of equivalent single-layer theory. The deflection values are obtained numerically with the help of finite element steps. The solution consistencies are verified by a convergence test and extended to perform the validation. Additionally, the numerical results are compared with the in-house experimental data of FML bending deflection values considering the experimental properties and influence of damage. The maximum deviation in the intact deflection response was -4.27%, while the deflection response for crack damage showed a deviation of -0.57%. Again, the model is engaged in obtaining the results by varying different geometry-dependent design parameters, including the damage data. The spherical geometry with a pre-damaged structure demonstrates better deformation resistance under external loading. The thickness ratio (L/h) and angle layup fiber scheme show a higher deflection response.Highlights A higher-order FE model is delved to compute the deflections of damaged FML. The model validity is verified with in-house experimental values. The inference of parameters on the deflection values are computed numerically. The understandings of significant parameters are discussed in detail.