Properties of Sandwich Structures With Reinforced Core

Abstract

Sandwich panels with a Rohacell core reinforced with composite laminates were constructed. The effective properties of the reinforced core were derived and verified by three point bending tests of a sandwich beam. The equilibrium equations for the sandwich plate with the composite reinforced core were derived. Impact experiment was also conducted by use of a drop tower. Damage modes and levels of damage in sandwich panels containing bare and reinforced Rohacell cores were investigated and compared. Several NDI methods were employed to inspect the damage in the sandwich panel and their merits were compared.