Effect of fluid–structure interaction on the underwater blast response and failure of composite panels

Abstract

With the increasing application of typical composite structures in ocean engineering, underwater blasts have begun to be a focus for the complexity of the fluid–structure interaction (FSI) effects. In this research, the dynamic responses and failure of composite laminated and sandwich panels subjected to an underwater blast were analyzed. The influence of the FSI on the response process and failure characteristics was studied numerically to gain insight into the dynamic failure mechanism. Different failure evolution forms were found, and each failure characteristic was closely correlated with FSI effects due to the respective mechanism. Additionally, based on Hamilton’s principle, a one-dimensional theoretical model considering the equivalent stiffness of plate as elastic foundation was established to predict the response process. Through comparison with the results obtained from similar set-up numerical model, the validity of the energy balance model is discussed. The work of this research laid a foundation for the application of composite panels in underwater protection.