Finite element simulation of Hopkinson compression test to investigate the dynamic behavior of composite materials

Due to their high strength and low weight, composites are used in various structures, including turbines, missiles, cars, and more, and maybe subjected to dynamic loading. Therefore, to properly design the structure, it is crucial to know the mechanical behavior of composite materials in dynamic loads. The Hopkinson compression tester is a useful tool for studying the dynamic behavior of materials at high strain rates. In this paper, the Hopkinson compression system's design principles for composite samples are mentioned, and to determine the dynamic behavior of such materials, this system by ABAQUS software. The behavior of the S-2 glass/sc15 epoxy composite sample in the thickness direction is simulated by a compression Hopkinson system. To create an appropriate incident waveform and to establish the condition of constant strain rate and dynamic stress equilibrium, effective parameters of pulse shaper included diameter, thickness, and the length of the sticker bar was investigated. By comparing the waves obtained from the simulations with the experimental results of this composite sample, the compression Hopkinson simulation has been validated. Finally, using a copper pulse shaper with appropriate dimensions, the appropriate incident wave for the S-2 glass / sc15 epoxy sample is created at two strain rates of 550 and 2250. The conditions of constant strain rate and dynamic equilibrium are established in two strain rates.