Effect of various factors and hygrothermal ageing environment on the low velocity impact response of fibre reinforced polymer composites- a comprehensive review

The scientific community has taken a particular interest in the study of low-velocity impact (LVI) behavior of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites due to its application across various domains. LVI is a serious threat to composites since it generates a variety of internal damages as well as complex failure mechanisms, resulting in a significant drop in composite structural characteristics. Several parameters, including fabric architecture, resin toughness, environmental conditions, stacking sequence, and hybridization can affect the impact resistance and damage tolerance of FRP composites. Furthermore, polymer composites in outdoor applications are exposed to various hygrothermal conditions. This results in moisture absorption and leads to physiochemical changes in the matrix material through various mechanisms such as plasticisation, hydrolysis and swelling. The long-term exposure to such environments causes the material property degradation, which affects the overall LVI performance and durability of the structures. Hence, it is crucial to critically review the influence of various parameters and hygrothermal ageing on the LVI response of FRP composites. This paper reviews the primary factors affecting LVI behavior, following, a comprehensive review on the hygrothermal effect on LVI behavior of FRP composites.