Low-velocity impact response of Kevlar/epoxy aluminum laminates

In this experimental study, the low-velocity impact behavior of aluminum–Kevlar laminates (ARALL) was investigated. ARALL composites were prepared in two different configurations as aluminum–Kevlar–aluminum (AKA) and Kevlar–aluminum–Kevlar (KAK). The aluminum alloy used in the preparation of the samples was supplied as 5754 series 2 mm thick plates. Kevlar fabrics were supplied in a weight of 300 g/m² and in twill weave type. Laminated composites with Kevlar twill fabrics were made through hand lay-up followed by the compression-molding process. [K]₄ composite laminates were obtained by curing Kevlar/epoxy laminates under 100°C and 7 bar pressure for 180 min. Then, samples of size 100 × 100 mm were cut from the plates with a water jet. The cut specimens were bound together with two-component adhesive. An Instron Dynatup 9250 HV impact test device was used for impact tests. The energy profiling method was used, which expresses the impact energy and the corresponding absorbed energy. The increasing impact energy was performed on the two configurations of ARALL composites until perforation occurred. The perforation threshold of AKA samples was approximately 70% higher than that of KAK samples.