Numerical study on static and dynamic characteristics of CFRP-steel mesh reinforced laminates

This study aims to systematically investigate the static tensile and low-velocity impact properties of a novel Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP)/steel wire mesh reinforced CFRP Laminate (SRCL), which is innovatively proposed with steel wire mesh as the reinforcing phase. The numerical simulation of its static tensile and low-velocity impact properties is systematically carried out. By establishing a finite element model, the effects of different mesh configurations (from 5×5 to 20×20) on the mechanical properties of SRCL were analyzed. The results show that under the condition of constant total steel consumption, the addition of steel mesh makes CFRP exhibit nonlinear characteristics during the tensile process and leads to a slight increase in impact load (approximately 6%). However, in the case of a low volume fraction (about 3%), the influence of different mesh structures on the macroscopic tensile and impact response of the material is not significant. The study also reveals the dynamic response process of SRCL under impact load and divides it into four typical stages. This research provides a reliable theoretical and numerical basis for the subsequent experimental study and engineering application of this new type of composite material.