Impact Characterization of Core-Filled Pultruded Biocomposite Panels

The major cost drivers for composites are raw materials and manufacturing process. Automated manufacturing processes like pultrusion and low cost raw materials can significantly lower the cost of composites. In the present work, a novel core-filled pultruded panel is developed using a bio-based polyester resin system. The panel is made using a one-step process in which the foam core enters the heated die along with the glass reinforcements. Solid and core-filled pultruded panels are manufactured using base polyester and soy-based polyester resin systems. Mechanical characterization was conducted on the manufactured panels. Four energy levels (25 J, 50 J, 60 J and 75 J) are considered for the impact tests. Impact parameters such as contact force, energy absorbed, center deflection and contact duration are recorded during the tests to evaluate their performance. Results indicate that the core-filled soy-based composite panels exhibit improved impact resistance as compared to the base polyester panels. The bio-based core-filled panels will have a wide variety of applications in the construction and transportation industry