Progressive failure numerical simulation and experimental verification of carbon-fiber composite corrugated beams under dynamic impact

To explore the axial impact energy absorption capacity of bidirectional carbon pre-impregnated (prepreg) composite corrugated beams, a solid 3D finite element model with different trigger mechanism settings and different ply designs was established. Numerical simulation of dynamic impact was performed on the model. An in-plane damage model considering shear failure was created based on continuum damage mechanics and Hashin's criteria, and a stiffness degradation model of damage failure for G803/5224 is proposed. The cohesive zone model is used and the bilinear traction-separation constitutive model is considered to simulate inter-laminar delamination failure, thereby accurately reflecting the anisotropic progressive damage characteristics of bidirectional carbon-fiber prepreg composite corrugated beams. The results show that progressive failure and damage occur under impact loading of corrugated beams. The energy-absorbing load-displacement curve and specific energy absorption were obtained through simulation. Simulation results were validated by comparison with test results. With the maximum relative error of its average crushing load less than 11%, the damage morphology and test results of the beam has improved in uniformity. Furthermore, the validity of 3D finite element models considering inter-laminar delamination damage has been validated.