Dynamic compression of sandwich composites at sub-ambient temperatures

The objective of this study is to investigate the dynamic response of S2-glass-vinylester foam core sandwich specimens at low temperatures. Sub-ambient testing condition was achieved using liquid nitrogen. The effect of the sandwich core density as well as microstructure was explored. Results from the stress-strain curves suggested that the energy absorption of the sandwich specimen was predominantly through progressive failure. Although a nominal increase in compressive strength was observed at sub-ambient temperature in respect to its room temperature, the effect of low temperature on the failure modes was severe. Each category of sandwich specimen portrayed its own unique mode of failure.