Damage Tolerance Assessment of Near Edge Impacts in CFRP Structures

This work deals with the experimental evaluation of near-edge impacts on the damage tolerant properties of CFRP structures. Though many examples of central impacts exist in literature, very few can be found regarding edge impacts. This experimental activity had the objective of residual strength characterization of the damaged coupons in comparison to the pristine ones. Different types of damages were inserted in the specimens (transverse and near-edge impact) for two different impact energy levels (3J and 5J). Subsequently, compression after impact tests were performed. A total of 25 specimens were tested. The results of this campaign indicate the higher criticality of near-edge impacts in respect to central impacts and they contribute to better understanding of the behaviour of CFRP materials subject to impact loads.