Low-Velocity Impact Dynamics of Preloaded Composite Panel on GPL-Reinforced Porous Substrate

In this study, the low-velocity impact (LVI) response of preloaded composite cylindrical panels on graphene platelet (GPL)-reinforced porous substrates was analyzed using the finite element method. The cylindrical panels were constructed as hybrid laminates composed of carbon fiber-reinforced unidirectional and woven prepregs. A progressive damage model based on the three-dimensional Hashin criterion was established. Both tensile and compressive preloading conditions were considered. The GPL-reinforced porous substrate was designed to provide stiffness to the hybrid panel and modeled as an elastic foundation of finite depth, with its spring stiffness predicted using a modified Vlasov model. The Poisson’s ratio and Young’s modulus of the nanocomposite foam were estimated using a generalized Mori–Tanaka model that accounts for porosity. The influences of impact loading, preloading, and the porous substrate on the dynamic response were investigated. Results revealed that the effect of preloading on the LVI response of the curved panel is characterized by stress state and failure in the front ply. While for flat panel, the effect is related to the overall bending deformation and failure in the back ply.