Low-velocity impact response of a thin sandwich plate with a metallic sheared dimple core subjected to a free boundary condition

► Excessive crushing and shear of core commence when core compressive strain is larger than 0.39. ► Energy absorption characteristics of the sandwich plate are influenced by the core compressive strain. ► Specific dissipated energy of the sandwich plate is 13.2-24.8% larger than that of DP780. ► Benefits of the sandwich plate can be maintained as bending dominant deformation is induced.