Energy Absorption Characteristics of Carbon /Epoxy Nano Filler Dispersed Composites Subjected to Localized Impact Loading

Energy absorbing capacity of carbon/epoxy nanocomposite laminates subjected to impact loading is studied in this paper. Nano fillers of 1% to 5% are dispersed in the epoxy matrix. The laminates with and without nano filler are prepared by hand lay-up and compression moulding process. Nanocomposite laminates and carbon/epoxy laminates are subjected to impact testing by using a gas gun with spherical nose cylindrical projectile. The velocity of impact is above the ballistic limit of the laminates. Energy absorbed by the laminates is calculated from initial and residual velocity of the projectile. The energy absorbed by the laminates in various failure modes and influence of nano filler dispersion are analyzed. It is observed that dispersion of nano filler in the matrix enhances the energy absorbing capacity of carbon/epoxy laminates during impact loading.