Numerical simulation study on the low-velocity impact behavior of CFRP square tubes

Abstract

A finite element model for the low-velocity impact of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) square tubes was established using ABAQUS. The 3D-Hashin failure criterion and cohesive contact behavior were adopted to simulate interlaminar damage. The reliability of the model was verified by comparison with experimental results, and the influence of different fiber ply angles on structural damage evolution was analyzed. The results show that the simulated and experimental curves agree well in profile, with a maximum load error of 9.4%, confirming the reliability of the modeling method. When the 90° ply is arranged as the outermost layer and ±45° plies are introduced, the advantages of the two ply orientations are fully exploited: the 90° ply first disperses and absorbs impact energy while constraining the global deformation of the square tube, and the ±45° plies further accommodate the shear stresses generated during impact and enhance structural integrity. Their synergistic effect more effectively improves the impact resistance of CFRP square tubes and substantially reduces matrix damage. This study provides a theoretical basis for the impact-resistant design and engineering application of CFRP square tubes.