Impact induced fracture in a laminated composite

Experimental data of the three-dimensional problem of impact of a flat strip by a spherical impactor are presented and interpreted qualitatively by comparison with a plane-strain numerical analysis of an infinitely wide plate impacted by a cylindrical impactor. The role of transverse shear stress in proximal and middle layer crack initiation is established. A detailed presentation of damage is provided with exact delamination zones. The basic conclusions drawn establish a basis for further research in understanding impact induced fracture in composites.