Response of E-glass/vinyl ester composite panels to underwater explosive loading: Effects of laminate modifications

The response of E-Glass/Vinyl ester curved composite panels subjected to underwater explosive loading has been studied. Three laminate constructions have been investigated to determine their relative performance when subjected to shock loading. These constructions are: (1) a baseline 0°/90° biaxial layup, (2) a 0°/90° biaxial layup that includes a thin glass veil between plies, and (3) a 0°/90° biaxial layup that has a coating of polyurea applied to the back face. The work consists of experimental work utilizing a water filled, conical shock tube facility. The samples are round panels with curved midsections, and are approximately 2.54 mm in thickness. The transient response of the plates is measured using a three-dimensional (3D) Digital Image Correlation (DIC) system, including high speed photography. This ultra high speed system records full field shape and displacement profiles in real time. The results show that the performance of the baseline laminate is improved when coated with the polyurea material, but conversely, is degraded by the inclusion of the glass veils between plies.