Axial splitting of composite columns with different cross sections

•Composite columns with identical perimeter and different cross sections are studied.•Various parameters corresponding to geometry and material properties are examined.•Triangular and hexagonal samples are worst and best energy absorbers, respectively.

The research investigates the axial splitting of E-glass/vinylester and E-glass/polyester composite columns with identical perimeters but different cross sections on polygonal aluminum dies, and the elimination of restrictions on the initial slit in the classical splitting process. A novel technique for the construction of mandrels using polystyrene foam is developed. Composite columns are produced by winding the fiber fabric layers around the mandrels using coarse and fine E-glass woven fibers. The deformation modes and energy absorption behavior of columns during the long stroke of the splitting process are compared. The effects of the initial slits, various cross sections, side lengths, number of fiber fabric layers, resin type, fiber fabric type and angle of polygon dies on the splitting and curling of the structures are investigated. The results of this study reveal that alternating cross sections of columns may affect deformation modes and energy absorption parameters.