Use of statical indentation laws in the impact analysis of laminated composite plates

The low-velocity impact response of graphite/epoxy laminates was investigated theoretically and experimentally. A nine-node isoparametric plate finite element in conjunction with an empirical contact law was used for the theoretical investigation. Theoretical results are in good agreement with strain-gage experimental data. The results of the investigation indicate that the present theoretical procedure describes the impact response of laminate for low-impact velocities.