Abstract
Finite element analyses based on higher-order shear deformation theory (HSDT) are presented to study low-velocity impact behavior of pre-twisted sandwich conical shell panels having functionally graded carbon nanotubes-reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC) facings. The temperature-dependent material properties of the FG-CNTRC facings are determined utilizing micromechanical models. The dynamic equilibrium equation of the impacted sandwich panel is formulated using Lagrange’s equation, wherein modified Hertzian contact law is used to evaluate contact force. The solutions of the resulting equations are obtained using Newmark’s time integration method. Finally, the effects of various parameters on the impact response of FG-CNTRC sandwich conical shell panel are analyzed.