Dynamic response and damage modeling of glass/epoxy tubular structures: Numerical investigation

This paper presents a finite element analysis of static and dynamic tests on thick filament wound glass/epoxy tubes. The first part deals with the validation of elastic properties and identification of damage initiation and its development in dynamic tests. The FEA results of the quasi-static and dynamic tests resulting in no damage appeared satisfactory. The second part of the paper is concerned with an impact model, including material property degradation, used for damage prediction. Simulated damage is compared with that obtained experimentally. The sizes of projected and cumulated surfaces are of the same order of magnitude as in the experimental measurements. The improved understanding of these phenomena and the development of predictive tools are part of an ongoing effort to improve the long-term integrity of composite structures for underwater applications.