Dynamic Response of Composite Structures in Extreme Loading Environments

A review of some recent advancements in knowledge of composite shell and sandwich structures subjected to extreme loading conditions in complex air and underwater environments is presented. Studies include polyurea (PU) coatings for mitigation of the response of these structures. Composite structures subjected to in-air blast loading included E-Glass Vinyl-Ester (EVE) plates, EVE sandwich structures with single and graded Corecell™ foam cores, and EVE plates with PU coatings. An in-depth analysis of the fluid-structure interaction between the shockwave and the structure is presented and applied to predict reflected pressure profiles, with close correlation to experimental results. Advances in underwater implosion research of both thin shell and sandwich composite structures are also presented. The mechanics of the hydrostatic collapse, as well as the emitted pressure pulses released during implosion, are characterized for the two structures respectively in free-field. Mitigation strategies are explored to reduce the strength of the implosion pulse from the collapse of the shell composites. Studies which address implosions in composite materials initiated by shock or explosive loading are also presented.