In the recent years a big focus is subjected to the response of structures subjected to out-of-plane loading such as blasts, impact, etc. not only to homogenous materials, but also to heterogeneous materials, such as composites. Such form of loading can cause considerable damage to the structure. In the case of layered composite materials the damage can have several forms, starting from damage in layers up to delamination and full damage of the construction. This paper describes the investigation of shockwave propagation in composite structures caused by impact loading. The composite consists of carbon fibers in a polymer matrix, in which the fibers are much stiffer then the matrix. Finite element simulations were carried out for a “bird” strike impact on a composite wing leading edge. Results show a good impact resistance and good damping abilities of shockwaves.
New Techiques for Composite Wing Manufacture
