Quasi-static compression response of foldcore sandwich structure based on core evolution

Abstract

Due to its superior performance, the foldcore structure has the potential to replace traditional honeycomb materials. Single-ridgeline V-shaped, double-ridgeline M-shaped, and curved S-shaped foldcore structures were designed based on the principle of origami by controlling areal density. Three foldcore sandwich structures were fabricated from GFRP by hot compression molding method, and PU foam-filled foldcore sandwich structures were also prepared by in-situ foaming. The strength analysis models of the three types of foldcore under out-of-plane compression load were established through differentiation and integration. Subsequently, the quasi-static compression performance and failure modes of the foldcore were investigated through experiments. The analysis model has a certain degree of accuracy in predicting the strength of the structure. It was found that the primary failure mode of V-shaped foldcore under out-of-plane compressive loading was wall buckling. In contrast, the M-shaped foldcore had higher buckling resistance and the failure mode changes from buckling to crushing. S-shaped foldcore had a higher compression strength, and its failure mode changed to wall shear fracture. In addition, lightweight foam filling improved the failure stress of the foldcore.

Keywords:

• Foldcore
• sandwich structure
• quasi-static compression
• GFRP
• polyurethane foam

Disclosure statement

The authors have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this article.