Energy absorption on metal-composite hybrid structures: Experimental and numerical simulation

Abstract

Abstract This paper investigates the mechanical behavior of hybrid structures under the quasi-static axial loading. The hybrid tubes with different configuration scheme, stacking sequence and foam filler are first used to perform the quasi-static axial compression tests. In addition, the tubes with aluminum, Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) and aluminum foam are also tested as a comparison of the hybrid tubes. It was found that both the empty and foam-filled aluminum/CFRP hybrid tubes showed better mechanical behavior characteristics. Based on the numerical modeling, the results have been confirmed by experiments. Furthermore, a parametric study is carried out to explore the effects of relevant parameters on the mechanical behaviors of the hybrid tubes, and some useful conclusions are achieved.