Experimental and numerical study of lattice-core sandwich panels under low-speed impact

In this study, the effect of lattice-core geometry in sandwich panels is studied. The relationship between force and displacement in crushing of the panels has been obtained using the experimental results. Three types of steel lattice cores with different dimensions have been analyzed under axial impact loading. Then, by numerical analysis, the impact parameters such as specific energy absorption are investigated. This type of energy-absorbing system can be used in the aerospace, shipbuilding, automotive, rail and elevator industries to absorb impact energy. According to the obtained results, a good agreement is observed between the experimental results and numerical simulations results. Regarding the axial impact experiments, the specific energy absorption capacity of the sandwich panel can be increased up to 246% by the selection of an appropriate core. In addition, choosing the right core increases the crashing force efficiency up to 214%. Finally, the appropriate geometrical parameters, and the best specimens are presented in terms of the considered criteria with respect to the design objectives.