Experimental evaluation of the response of sandwich panels in low-velocity impact

Sandwich panels with aluminum or glass fiber composite facesheets and polyurethane or polystyrene foam core were tested in impact by using an Instron Ceast 9340 impact tower at speeds from 1.5 to 4.5 m/s. The influence of the initial velocity of impact and kinetic energy is analyzed for all types of panels. Particularities of the impact response of the sandwich panels were observed and explained. The facesheet type influence on the damage and penetration of the panels during impact is discussed. If the absorbed energy of the panels is a priority, then the aluminum facesheets and the polystyrene foam core are a good combination. If minimum deformation is required, then composite facesheets and the more rigid polyurethane foam core are a strong option for the sandwich panel design.