Effect of Stacking Arrangement and Reinforcement Ratio on Impact Behavior of Novel Thermoplastic Embedded Hybrid Composites

Abstract

Light weight and enhanced impact resistance characteristics are the principal drivers to invent advanced materials for structural and armor applications. In this article, the dynamic transient impact response of hybrid composites developed from glass fabric, polycarbonate (PC) sheet with different relative volume fractions and different stacking arrangements is discussed. The dynamic tests are performed for evaluating the impact resistance of novel hybrid composites at an equal level of impact energy (55 J), impact velocity (4.56 m/s) and impactor mass (5.26 kg). Neat composite is prepared and tested for comparison. The hand-lay-up method with compression molding technique is employed for preparing all the laminates. Contribution of the thermoplastic sheet in conventional glass fiber reinforced composites toward improvisation of impact resistance is assessed and reported. Load–energy–deflection–time curves are plotted to understand the transient behavior of the composite plates. The results indicated that thermoplastic phase in the novel composite enhanced impact resistance in terms of load-carrying capability, energy absorption. Further, it reduced the degree of damage extent and damage area. The density reduction of 12.5–22.5% is noted for hybrid laminates on comparison with neat composite. The damage assessment carried using the vision measuring system revealed that the cone formation due to plastic deformation of PC along with fiber fracture and matrix cracking is the main reason for impact resistance enhancement.