Effect of various factors and hygrothermal ageing environment on the low velocity impact response of fibre reinforced polymer composites- a comprehensive review

Abstract

The scientific community has taken a particular interest in the study of low-velocity impact (LVI) behavior of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites due to its application across various domains. LVI is a serious threat to composites since it generates a variety of internal damages as well as complex failure mechanisms, resulting in a significant drop in composite structural characteristics. Several parameters, including fabric architecture, resin toughness, environmental conditions, stacking sequence, and hybridization can affect the impact resistance and damage tolerance of FRP composites. Furthermore, polymer composites in outdoor applications are exposed to various hygrothermal conditions. This results in moisture absorption and leads to physiochemical changes in the matrix material through various mechanisms such as plasticisation, hydrolysis and swelling. The long-term exposure to such environments causes the material property degradation, which affects the overall LVI performance and durability of the structures. Hence, it is crucial to critically review the influence of various parameters and hygrothermal ageing on the LVI response of FRP composites. This paper reviews the primary factors affecting LVI behavior, following, a comprehensive review on the hygrothermal effect on LVI behavior of FRP composites.

Keywords:

• drop weight impact
• impact resistance
• hybridization
• hygrothermal environment
• damage assessment
• energy absorption

Public interest statement

Composite materials are extensively employed in aerospace, automotive, and construction industries due to their lightweight nature and outstanding mechanical properties. However, their performance can be significantly influenced by the combined effects of low-velocity impact and hygrothermal ageing, which involve exposure to moisture and varying temperatures over time. This review study aims to explore the effects of various factors including the hygrothermal environment on the low velocity impact response of composites, investigating the damage mechanisms, degradation behavior, and subsequent consequences. This article provides a thorough knowledge of the response of composites under low-velocity impact during hygrothermal conditions by employing a combination of experimental analysis, various material sequences, and accelerated ageing techniques. The results of this study will help to improve design methods, manufacturing techniques, and maintenance procedures for composite structures, assuring their durability and performance throughout time in demanding situations.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Oshin Fernandes

Oshin Fernandes has obtained her B. Tech degree in Aeronautical Engineering from MIT Manipal, India. Her research interests include: Composite materials, Manufacturing and characterization.

Jyoti Dutta

Jyoti Dutta has obtained her B. Tech degree in Aeronautical Engineering from MIT Manipal, India. Her research interests include: Composite materials, Manufacturing and characterization.

Yogeesha Pai

Yogeesha Pai is a faculty in the Department of Aeronautical and Automobile engineering at Manipal Institute of Technology – Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) (Institute of Eminence)- Manipal, India. He has obtained his PhD degree in Polymer Composites from MIT Manipal and M.Tech degree in Aerospace Engineering from IIT Kharagpur, India. His research interests include: Advanced composite materials and characterization, Aircraft structures, Smart materials, Vibrational analysis.