Impact response of 3D printed cornstalk-inspired structures: The effect of indenter shape on penetration

This paper reports the mechanical response and damage tolerance of 3D-printed cornstalk-inspired structures subjected to impact loading. Specimens were subjected to dynamic indentation tests at multiple impact energies with flat, hemispherical, and conical indenters. The mechanical properties of the base material (ABS) were measured across varying strain rates using a Shimadzu® Universal Testing Machine and a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar. The effect of geometrical variations of the constituents on energy-absorbing capability was also investigated. Damage characteristics were interrogated through X-ray CT scans and provided detailed failure modes associated with each indenter shapes. Further, finite element simulations provided insights into the penetration mechanisms associated with the different indenter shapes. The results demonstrated that test specimens impacted by flat indenters absorbed ∼25 % less energy than those impacted by hemispherical and conical indenters. Among the various indenters, the conical shape had the highest duration of contact force within the specimen before experiencing failure by matrix cracking and complete perforation.