ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses specifically on the implications of utilizing composite structures in maritime applications below the waterline because the structural behavior is affected by fluid-structure interaction (FSI). The FSI generally has two-way interactions between fluids and composite structures. Fluids apply pressure loading to structures, while the structures affect the fluid velocity at the FSI interface. The chapter discusses low-velocity impact on composite structures that are in contact with water. The structures may be in contact with water on only one side or on both sides. Once the effect of FSI was investigated using the base model, the flexible base model was further analyzed to investigate the effect of transient flow on the flexible front plate. Multiplication of the average pressure by the plate surface area resulted in the total fluid force on the plate. The average pressure plot closely matched the pressure plot at the center node.
