Characterization of failure modes in compression-after impact of glass–epoxy composite laminates using acoustic emission monitoring

This paper investigates the effect of impact velocity on compression-after impact (CAI) strength, while the different failure modes arising during CAI test are characterized using the acoustic emission (AE) technique. For this purpose, CAI GFRP laminates manufactured as per ASTM D7137 were subjected to impact velocities such as 3.5, 5 and 6 m/s at room temperature. Impacted laminates were then subjected to compression tests using a specially fabricated fixture: AE activity was monitored during loading. Frequency analysis and location analysis were performed on the AE data obtained during CAI test of GFRP specimens impacted at different velocities to investigate the nature and extent of damage.