Dynamic responses of a novel impact-resistant panel comprising dual steel–concrete–steel panels and infilled gradient aluminum foams

A novel impact-resistant panel comprising dual steel-concrete-steel panels and infilled gradient aluminum foam (named as DSCS-GAF panel) was firstly proposed. The impact behavior of DSCS-GAF panel was studied by conducting drop hammer impact tests. The failure mode of DSCS-GAF panel showed global bending and local indentation, while distinct punching shear failure was observed for the impact-resistant panel with absence of upper SCS panel. The influences of thickness ratio of concrete in upper layer to lower layer on the impact responses of DSCS-GAF panel were investigated. The Finite Element (FE) models of DSCS-GAF panel under impact loading were established and validated against the test results. The numerical simulation results showed that the gradient aluminum foam panels and upper SCS panel in DSCS-GAF panel absorbed the majority of the impact energy. Furthermore, the parametric analysis was conducted based on the validated FE model to investigate variables including the thickness of steel faceplate and gradient aluminum foam panels.