Impact on composite structures

The problem of impact damage in laminated composite structures was studied. The actual nature and extent of damage, and the consequent residual strength, was found to depend on many factors including laminate ply and matrix properties, stacking sequence, and overall structural geometry, mass and stiffness. The construction of a thin-walled structure which resists overall buckling in compression up to the point at which highly local plastic hinges form was suggested. For high velocity and hyper velocities the emphasis was given on designing resistance and energy absorption by armour shields.