Engineering
Modeling Composite Laminates for Progressive Damage Under Low-Velocity Impact
Quick fact
In laminated composites, a low-velocity impact (like a dropped tool) can create internal delamination that reduces compressive strength by up to 60% while leaving no visible surface damage, making it one of the most dangerous failure modes.
Why this is interesting
Imagine a composite aircraft wing receiving a minor bump from a baggage cart — it looks fine on the outside, but hidden cracks and delaminations may be spreading inside. How do engineers predict this invisible damage and ensure the wing stays safe?