Axial crush and energy absorption characteristics of aluminum/GFRP hybrid square tube

Abstract

In this study, static axial crush tests were performed with the aluminum/GFRP hybrid tubes. Glass/Epoxy prepregs were wrapped around aluminum tube and then co-cured. The failure of hybrid tube was stable and progressive without trigger mechanism, and specific energy absorption was increased to maximum 33% in comparison with aluminum tube. The best energy absorption performance was obtained for the 90 degrees plies hybrid tube. Aluminum/GFRP hybrid tube showed effective energy absorption capability because wrapped composite tube constrains the deflection of aluminum tube. The failure of hybrid tube was stable without trigger mechanism because inner aluminum tube could play the role of crack initiator and controller Mean crushing load could be calculated by modified plastic hinge collapse model for hybrid material. The calculated results by this model showed a good agreement with the experimental results. Aluminum/GFRP hybrid tube showed good energy absorption and easy production capability.