Response of Topological Soliton lattice structures subjected to dynamic compression and blast loading

Abstract

A novel topological soliton lattice (TSL) unit cell with fascinating behavioral characteristics is developed. Lattice structure as well as the sandwich composite panels are both constructed. Numerical simulation is utilized to simulate the dynamic compression and blast behavior of the proposed structures considering the rate-dependent properties, elastoplastic response and nonlinear contact. Mooney–Rivlin (MR) hyperelastic constitutive model and Generalized Maxwell model are used to model the TSL structure, and Johnson–Cook material model is implemented to model the plate material. The numerical model is validated by comparing with the experimental results. A series of parametric studies are conducted to gain insight into the effects of loading velocity, number of core layers, equivalent TNT loads and panel thickness on the dynamic mechanical behavior of the TSL lattice and sandwich structures. Testing results indicated that the proposed TSL lattice possessed an attractive mechanical behavior, which was relevant to the specific geometric parameters and loading conditions. The proposed novel lattice would expand the design space for the development of future materials with customized response characteristics.