Elucidating the mechanisms of damage in foam core sandwich composites under impact loading and low temperatures

Recent interest in Arctic exploration has brought new challenges concerning the mechanical behavior of lightweight materials for offshore structures. Exposure to seawater and cold temperatures are known degrade properties several materials, thus, compromising safety personnel This study aims investigate low-velocity impact woven carbon/vinyl ester sandwich composites with Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foam core at low marine applications. The tests were performed a drop tower system an in-built environmental chamber. Impact responses, such as contact force, displacement absorbed energy, four energies 7.5 J, 15 30 60 J determined in-situ 25°C, 0°C, −25°C −50°C. Results showed that temperature significant influence on dynamic composites. rendered stiff brittle decreased, which detrimental effect their residual strength durability. At all temperatures, samples experienced matrix cracking, fiber fracture, delamination top face sheet. impacted facesheet localized crushing/fracture. exhibited perforation penetration into core. As striker increased. core, back varying extent damage. −50°C, composite almost completely perforated. In general, brittle, resulting increase degree damage more pronounced modes. energies,