Model-based inverse characterization of high-velocity tension impact failure in composites

This study presents the material characterization of high-velocity tension impact failure in composites using the split Hopkinson bar (SHB) test and the inverse analysis. A simulation code for the SHB test was developed using finite element analysis. In the code, the Hashin failure criterion is used to characterize the impact failure phenomena in composites. Material characterization is achieved to identify the material parameters for the Hashin criterion through inverse analysis from the measured strain histories during the SHB test. The advantage of this characterization is to obtain the true dynamic failure properties of composites without strict assumptions of elastic wave propagation on a specimen during the SHB test. Numerical examples are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the present characterization.