Mechanical characterization of lightweight foam-based sandwich panels

Abstract

Foam-based composite structures are widely used in the field of construction market for roofing and closing walls. This paper presents a mechanical characterization of a lightweight sandwich panels with foam core. The faces of the panels are made of thin steel sheets, and for the core, closed-cell polyurethane foam with a density of 40 kg/m3 was used. Mechanical testing consists of quasi-static four-point bending, transversal tensile and compression tests. All experimental tests were conducted at room temperature in accordance to EN 14509:2013 Standard. With the data obtained from experimental tests, load–displacement curves and mechanical properties are presented. Following the experimental tests, the elastic characteristics (shear modulus, tensile E-modulus, compression modulus), strength properties (ultimate shear strength, transverse tensile strength, compression strength) and energy absorption performances were determined.