Predicting compression-after-impact behavior of thermoplastic composite laminates by an experiment-based approach

An experiment-based approach for predicting the compression-after-impact (CAI) behavior and compressive residual strength of carbon fibre reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) composite is presented. The three-dimensional finite element model with an impact-induced damage region obtained from X-ray computed tomography analysis is developed. The unknown stiffness reduction of materials in the damaged region is determined by CAI experiments. The...