ABSTRACT
This paper presents the detailed Finite Element (FE) numerical modeling technique and dynamic lateral impact simulation of bare and FRP strengthened Circular Hollow Section (CHS) tubular members. The equivalent composite layer technique is adopted to simulate experimental failure characterizes of FRP laminates and strengthened members. The FE analysis results are compared with the drop hammer lateral impact test results. Very good agreement between the lateral displacement-time curves of bare and strengthened specimens is observed. Both local and global deformation failures of the specimens are well predicted from dynamic impact simulation. Moreover, FE analysis results confirm that the FRP debonding failure at the impact location of the specimens can be simulated with reasonable accuracy. Thus, the current numerical analysis technique can be adopted to accurately predict the lateral impact responses of FRP strengthened hollow tubular members.
