Energy absorption characteristics of aluminium/CFRP hybrid beam under impact loading

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the energy absorption characteristics of an aluminium/carbon fibre reinforced polymer (Al/CFRP) hybrid square hollow section beam under transverse impact loading. This experiment was performed by three-point bending with an impact velocity of 53 km/h according to the side impact regulation FMVSS No. 214. Specimens were fabricated with various combinations of laminate thickness and stacking sequence. Test results were compared based on both specific energy absorption and crush force efficiency of these specimens, the Al/CFRP (0/+45/90/−45)2 hybrid square hollow section beam exhibited the best specific energy absorption, which was 28% greater than that of an aluminium beam.