Abstract:
Low-velocity impact behavior poses a significant challenge to the structural integrity of
3D-printed sandwich composites, often leading to damage mechanisms such as fiber
failure, matrix cracking, and delamination. Understanding the impact resistance and energy
absorption capacity of these composites is crucial for optimizing their performance in
practical applications. The primary objective of this research is to analyze the forcedisplacement and force-time responses of 3D-printed sandwich structures with PLA and
ABS cores and woven roving face sheets under varying impact energies (15J, 30J, and
45J). Three infill patterns Grid, Cross3D, and Lightning were used to explore the
relationship between structural stiffness, damage initiation, and energy dissipation. The
Grid pattern in PLA with top layers exhibited the highest stiffness and peak force,
demonstrating superior resistance to internal damage and deformation. In contrast, ABS
with Lightning infill showed the lowest peak force and highest deformation, indicating
early failure under high-energy impacts. SEM, microscopy and 3D scanning revealed
extensive damage mechanisms, particularly in high-energy impacts, with PLA Grid with
top layers displaying the best energy absorption and structural resilience. This research
highlights the critical role of material type and infill pattern in enhancing the impact
resistance of 3D-printed sandwich composites and provides valuable insights for future
applications.
