Finite Modelling of Impact Behaviour of Sandwich Panel with Bagasse Composite Core

Abstract

Over the last two decades, the use of natural fibres for reinforcement material has increased in combination with plastics in order to produce high strength materials for use in aircraft structures and construction industry. Bagasse is one such source of natural fibres; a by-product from the widespread sugarcane industry in Australia. The aim of this project is to investigate the use of sugarcane bagasse as the composite core of a sandwich panel structure and establish its compression and impact resistance properties. Low velocity impact numerical test results, obtained from a finite element model (FEM) analysis, can be used to determine the structure’s potential application as a crash barrier for highways and other energy absorption applications. This report presents the results of quasi-static bagasse composite compression tests and low velocity impact tests of cylindrical bagasse samples. This report also investigates the significance of sandwich panels with bagasse as a composite core using the commercial FEM software, LS-DYNA.