Numerical study on low-velocity impact of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer composite circular tubes

Abstract

Carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are widely used in the aerospace, automotive, energy, construction, and other industries, owing to their high strength, fatigue resistance, design flexibility, light weight, corrosion resistance, and favorable thermal properties. This study developed a numerical model for the low-velocity impact of CFRP composite circular tubes based on the 3D-Hashin failure criterion and the maximum strain failure criterion, and investigated the mechanical behavior and failure mechanisms of the tubes under low-velocity impact loading. The results show that in the initial stage of impact, local indentation occurs in the contact between the impactor and the tube. As impact energy continues to be applied, the impacted area at the mid-span of the tube reaches a fully damaged state first, after which stress concentration shifts toward both axial ends, forming new indentation zones. The circular tube exhibits a typical hybrid failure morphology. Moreover, under low-velocity impact conditions, increasing the ply angle slightly increases the displacement, but significantly improves the structural impact resistance and damage tolerance, achieving the dual effect of enhancing structural strength and suppressing crack propagation. This study provides a theoretical basis and engineering guidance for the impact-resistant design of composite structures.