Finite-element prediction of impact damage in composite hydrofoil leading-edge structures

A finite-element modelling approach is employed and validated to predict the low-velocity impact (LVI) response and residual strength of composite marine structures with different geometric complexities. The methodology is assessed against experimental results obtained previously for flat laminates, hollow leading-edge sections and reinforced leading-edge sections subjected to various impact conditions. The model successfully reproduces the force-time response, force-displacement behaviour, internal damage morphology and compression-after-impact (CAI) strength, demonstrating robust predictive capability across a range of structural configurations. Predicted CAI strengths agree closely with experimental values, reproducing the reduction from 152 MPa in pristine specimens to around 138 MPa following 11 J impact and 107 MPa after 22.5 J impact. In addition, the simulation successfully captures the spatial extent and through-thickness distribution of delamination and fibre damage observed in ultrasonic and X-ray computed tomography (XCT) scans. While some deviations are observed, including smoother force responses and slightly extended contact durations, the model demonstrates strong predictive capability. Overall, the validated models provide a robust numerical tool for analysing impact damage in composite marine structures and supports future parametric studies and impact-resistant structural design.