Failure Mode Maps for Marine Composite Structures Subjected to Blast and Ballistic Impact

A methodology for determining the failure mode and failure conditions of marine composite structures subjected to blast and ballistic impact will be developed. Analytical expressions characterizing the various failure modes will be derived. Theseexpressions will include the effects of ballistic damage. Using these expressions failure mode maps will be generated. These maps will allow Navy ship designers to quickly and easily assess the failure modes and failure conditions of marine compositestructures subjected to blast and ballistic impact. This research and the resulting analysis tool will expedite the implementation of composite structures in Navy ships by allowing the blast and ballistic resistance of these structures to be quickly andeasily assessed. It also provides a framework for development of cost-effective test programs and interpretation of the test results.