Experimental and theoretical investigation on the effect of incorporating STF to fibre metal laminates (FML) subjected to high strain loading

This project investigates the influence of the incorporation of shear thickening fluid (STF) on the impact behaviours of composite and Fiber Metal Laminate (FML) panels. The unmodified and modified composite specimens and FML panels with different configurations will be fabricated using a hand lay-up or other method and will be investigated through high-speed impact testing. The tests will be conducted with a flat-ended projectile and the loading conditions will be the same for all samples, except support spans which will be varied. Following experimental testing, damages at the punch region will be extensively investigated, and localized and global damages will be monitored. In the theoretical part of the project, an analytical model for the high-velocity impact behaviour of these kinds of panels under flat-ended cylindrical projectile will be presented. This model employs an energy balance approach to derive the governing differential equations related to the process. The model will consider all mechanisms including crushing, tensile fracture, plug kinetic, and friction loss. A closed-form solution will be presented to the derived governing differential equations using singularity functions. Singularity functions will be used to incorporate discontinuities due to various energy-absorbing mechanisms. The results of the model will be compared with the presented experimental results. The effects of various impact parameters on the residual velocity and energy absorption will be studied and the results will be reported, discussed, and commented upon