Experimental Investigation on the Pulse Behavior of Polymeric Matrix Composites Used in Vehicles

The impact load is defined as the momentary force on the material within a very short period of time. The laminated composite materials can be subjected to many impact loads compared to where they are used. In this study, four different types of oriented carbon fiber materials [0& deg; /0& deg;]s, [0& deg; /90& deg;]s, [�45& deg;]s and [0& deg; /90/+45& deg; /-45& deg;]s were used. Eight-layers aluminum honeycomb carbon fiber/epoxy composite samples cut of 10 cm x 10 cm were made. Four different samples were tested under 80 joule impact energy. Force-slump curves, force-time curves, absorbed energy-time curves and velocity-time curves were plotted. As a result of the experimental study, puncture damage occurred in all the samples exposed to 80 joule impact energy. The material which had the highest damping capacity and maximum strength against the impact was C 48 composite material with eight-layer [0& deg; /90& deg; /+45& deg; /-45& deg;]s. It was concluded that the carrying capacity and impact strength of the C48 sample were higher than the samples with different fabric orientations. Crush test applied to the carbon fiber/epoxy composite samples and crushing traces, fiber breaks and matrix fractures were observed on the impact applied upper surfaces.