Driven dart impact response and simulation of a multi-layer HDPE

Abstract

A finite element (FE) modelling method consists of FE representation of the structure and material model(s) with input parameters. To develop a suitable FE modelling method representing the deformation of multi-layer high-density polyethylene (HDPE) fuel tanks in crash events, a combined experimental and computational approach was proposed. It included material characterisation, material modelling, FE simulations and experimental validations at the levels of subcomponent and full-size structures. This paper focuses on the modelling of multi-layer HDPE under impact loading. Driven dart impact experiment was carried out at different rates at ambient temperature and −40°C. A plasticity material law with rate-dependent yield and failure was employed to simulate the large deformation and fracture behaviours of multi-layer HDPE under impact. The results showed that the impact responses of the multi-layer HDPE can be obtained by FE simulations using plasticity material models. However, some of the material parameters obtained from uniaxial tension experiments need to be adjusted to simulate the driven dart impact where biaxial tension presents, indicating that material models established solely with uniaxial test data may not be sufficient at structural levels. To validate material models, subcomponent testing and modelling is necessary.