Fibre-metal laminate structures: High-velocity impact, penetration, and blast loading – A review
Arcade Serubibi, Paul J. Hazell, J. P. Escobedo, Hongxu Wang, Ebrahim Oromiehie, B. Gangadhara Prusty, Andrew W. Phillips, Nigel A. St John
Abstract
Recent advances in the automated manufacture of composite structures have renewed the interest in fibre metal laminate (FML) structures in various engineering sectors. FML structures, which are manufactured by bonding metal plates and composite laminates, are increasingly being designed to withstand impact and blast loading during service, partly because of their excellent mechanical properties and cost-effectiveness. In this paper, we present a synthesis of recent publications to consolidate the understanding of how FML structures behave under impact and blast loading. The review further contrasts existing techniques to assess the failure mechanisms in FMLs and shed light on their strengths and weaknesses. We also discuss various numerical modelling approaches applicable to heterogenous structures at various length scales and outline how those approaches influence computational results. Finally, futuristic designs of FML structures are discussed to forecast possible innovative strategies and trends that can be implemented to enhance the energy absorption capability and damage tolerance of FML structures.