High-impact resistant hybrid sandwich panel filled with shear thickening fluid

Abstract

This study developed a hybrid aluminium sandwich panel (ASP) with aluminium/Kevlar fabric facings filled with a concentrated shear thickening fluid (STF) for high impact resistance. Local puncture failure mode was dominant in pristine ASP after low-velocity impact, whereas global energy absorption behaviour was achieved after the addition of Kevlar fabrics and STF. The impact resistance of hybrid ASPs was greatly enhanced with increased core thickness. Micro-CT analysis after impact revealed that the excellent impact resistance of the hybrid sandwich panels was attributed to the synergistic effect of STF’s high energy absorption, Kevlar fabrics’ increased in-plane stiffness after STF impregnation and confinement of aluminium cells on the STF fillings. The energy absorption mechanism after the addition of Kevlar fabrics and STF are discussed in detail.