The Effect of Matrix and Fiber Properties on Impact Resistance

The basic material properties which control impact damage are identified and testing techniques are assessed. It is demonstrated that static indentation tests can provide better information about failure processes than impact tests, and they are simpler to conduct. In thin and thick laminates, it was found that the matrix shear strength controls the onset of delamination damage and that the fiber strength controlled the penetration phase. In thin laminates, tough matrices do little to enhance impact resistance.