Energy absorption characteristics of composite tubes with different fibers and matrix under axial quasi-static and impact crushing conditions

The collapse characteristics and energy absorption capability of composite tubes with different fibers and matrix were studied in present article under axial quasi-static and impact crushing conditions. The sensitivity to fibers, matrix and loading conditions were thoroughly discussed for the crushing modes and energy absorption capability. Experimental results showed specimens with different matrix and fibers exhibit three typical types of crushing modes. Specimens G803/3234 and G827/3234 had better energy absorption performance than the specimens with 5224 matrix. Impact loading condition led to lower energy absorption capability as compared to quasi-static loading condition. Moreover, impact loading condition also caused the crushing mode transition from splaying mode to fragmentation mode for G803/3234 and G827/3234.