Theoretical and experimental study of foam-filled lattice composite panels under quasi-static compression loading

In this paper, a simple and innovative foam-filled lattice composite panel is proposed to upgrade the peak load and energy absorption capacity. Unlike other foam core sandwich panels, this kind of panels is manufactured through vacuum assisted resin infusion process rather than adhesive bonding. An experimental study was conducted to validate the effectiveness of this panel for increasing the peak strength. The effects of lattice web thickness, lattice web spacing and foam density on initial stiffness, deformability and energy absorbing capacity were also investigated. Test results show that compared to the foam-core composite panels, a maximum of an approximately 1600% increase in the peak strength can be achieved due to the use of lattice webs. Meanwhile, the energy absorption can be enhanced by increasing lattice web thickness and foam density. Furthermore, by using lattice webs, the specimens had higher initial stiffness. A theoretical model was also developed to predict the ultimate peak strength of panels.