Simulation study on mechanical properties of NPR new material tank specimens under impact loading

To elucidate the mechanical response of novel negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) material tanks under impact loading and to assess their impact resistance, this study investigates tank specimens fabricated from NPR materials within the constraints of experimental conditions. A finite element model of the NPR tank specimens was developed, and transient analyses were performed under various impact loadings to examine their stress distribution patterns. The results reveal that, under dynamic impact, NPR tank specimens exhibit remarkable energy absorption capabilities through uniform large deformations and transformation-induced plasticity (TRIP effect), while maintaining structural integrity within a critical impact energy threshold. Beyond this threshold, the specimens tend to undergo stable, controllable buckling rather than catastrophic fracture, thereby avoiding the brittle fragmentation typical of conventional steels or the tearing failures common in aluminum alloys. These findings highlight a promising approach to overcoming traditional material failure modes, offering a safer and more resilient solution for high-risk fuel transport applications.