Explicit Dynamic Finite Element Simulation of Plate Impacts for Damage Localization

This work explores the application of the explicit dynamic finite element analysis (FEA) software, LS-DYNA for the simulation of low-velocity impacts upon metallic plates as a preliminary assessment for similar work in fibre-reinforced polymers (FRPs). Impacts are performed on a flat (100 × 100)-mm aluminium plate of 1 mm thickness using a 10-mm spherical steel projectile. Impact events between 2.5 J and 20 J are performed, and the acoustic and modal response of the plate is analysed. The aim of this work is to provide a framework that would allow for the localization and interrogation of impact events for the assessment of barely visible impact damage (BVID) in FRPs. The challenges of BVID are discussed as well as the future work to be undertaken towards the development of an acoustic emission (AE) structural health monitoring (SHM) system.