Applicability of AZ31B-H24 magnesium in Fibre Metal Laminates – An experimental impact research

Drop-weight impact testing was carried out on AZ31B-H24-based Fibre Metal Laminate (FML) and two aluminium-based Glare FMLs. Identical S2-glass/epoxy layers were utilized in all the FMLs. The purpose of the research was to study the applicability of AZ31B-H24 magnesium in FMLs and the role of metal layers on the impact behaviour of FMLs in general. Comparisons between the laminates were made through the equal bending stiffness and equal laminate thickness approaches. The impact resistance of the FMLs was compared by defining the failure energy limits for first cracking, second cracking and perforation. Impact damage resistance was studied by force–time measurements, ultrasonic testing and cross-sectional imaging. The results revealed that the metal layers of AZ31B-H24-based FML (MgFML) crack with lower impact energies and damage more extensively when compared to Glare FMLs. The specific perforation limit of MgFML was on an equal level with Glare FMLs.