Finite volume modelling of low speed structural impact problems

Two investigations are described in this thesis on the common theme of applying finite volume methods to simulate structural impact problems. The first investigation is the application of the Eulerian Finite Volume Method (EFVM) to simulate the low-speed impact of ductile materials. Simulation results are validated against experiment showing that it is possible to accurately predict crater deformation profiles over the low speed speed impact regime for different projectile and substrate materials. We demonstrate how the rate dependent Johnson-Cook plasticity model is crucial to ensure correspondence to experiment. The second investigation is concerned with the application of EFVM to simulate impact damage to thin polymeric coatings applied to the surface of metals. The aim of this work is to demonstrate how new simulation methods can help understand coating damage due stone impact. We simulate the debonding phenomenon of single layer coatings under impact by setting boundary conditions at the plate and paint interface. We show how EFVM can capture two limits of interface behaviour, sliding and separation 'slip' at one extreme and zero sliding 'welded' at the other. Results compare well to previously published experimental and simulation work, and our own finite element simulations in Abaqus. We also demonstrate how EFVM brings greater robustness and stability compared to FEM when modelling adhesive failure and higher energy impact penetration.