ABSTRACT
Standardized instrumented impact tests, such as ISO6603/2, provide information about the impact response of a given polymer. However, these individual impact tests can not predict the performance of a composite of polymers. Finite element modeling of the standardized test with ABAQUS is used to predict the impact response of a multi-layered polymer composite. Modeling yields valuable impact response information such as failure modes and maximum impact energy, for any proposed configuration. Predicting impact response through finite element analysis avoids the expense of molding samples for destructive testing. ABAQUS/Explicit was used to predict the response of three-layer polymer composites in different environments under various loading conditions. Results obtained from the models allow for cost-effective development and optimization of the polymer composite for applications such as enclosures.