Investigation of impact behavior of polycarbonate panels under projectile impact loading

Abstract

This study embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the damage inflicted upon polycarbonate panels by a spherical steel projectile, employing a combination of numerical simulations and experimental investigations. Within the scope of this study, projectile impact tests are launched to the panel center and 160 mm away from the panel. All panel thickness is determined as 2.1 mm. In addition, all polycarbonate panels are measured as 500 x 500 mm2. Single curved panels were designed to have a radius of 1000 mm and 2000 mm and were produced in accordance with these determined dimensions. The trade name of the polycarbonate material used is Lexan 9030. Furthermore, all panel designs were made using Catia. The material properties crucial for the analysis are meticulously acquired through a series of tests, including the split Hopkinson pressure bar test (SHBT), static tensile test (STT), and static compression test (SCT). Static tensile and compression tests were carried out at ITU Aerospace Engineering Composite Structure Laboratory. Tensile and compression tests were performed according to ASTM D638 and ASTM D695 standards, respectively. According to these standards, static tensile tests were performed at 5 mm/min. Static compression tests were carried out at a speed of 1.3 mm/min. Split Hopkinson bar tests were performed to determine the material properties at high strain rates.