Finite Element Analysis and Optimization of Composite Plate Subjected to Close-Range Explosion

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 B.P 10034 Tamanrasset airport road - 11000

2 Soils and Thermal Engineering Laboratory (LMST), Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d'Oran Mohamed-Boudiaf USTO-MB Algeria.

3 Laboratory of Mathematics Modelling and Application, Faculty of SMMI, Adrar University

4 KFUPM Box: 2036 Dhahran 31261 – Saudi Arabia.

5 Laboratory for Theoretical Physics and Material Physics (LPTPM), Hassiba Benbouali University of Chlef. P.O Box. 151, Hay Essalem, 02000 Chlef, Algeria.

6 Laboratory of Materials and Energy, University of Tamanghasset, Tamanghasset, Algeria.

Abstract

Composite materials, particularly glass and carbon fibre composites, are widely used in aerospace, automotive, and Defence applications because of their excellent strength-to-weight ratio and superior mechanical performance. However, their structural integrity can be severely compromised when subjected to high-intensity dynamic loads such as close-range explosions.

This study presents a comprehensive finite element analysis (FEA) and optimization methodology to evaluate and improve the blast resistance of these composite plates under surface contact explosive loading. The numerical model was developed in LS-DYNA, where the laminates were modeled with 3D solid elements and governed by the Tsai–Wu failure criterion to predict ply failure Behaviour. Model validation was carried out by comparing numerical predictions with experimental data from the literature, showing good agreement in terms of delamination area, perforation, and damage distribution.

Following validation, a Genetic Algorithm (GA) implemented through LS-OPT was employed to optimize the laminate lay-up sequence, aiming to maximize the safety factor. The optimization yielded significant performance improvements—raising the safety factor by up to 63% and reducing delamination damage by up to 33%. Furthermore, the effect of explosive stand-off distance was analyzed, revealing its critical role in mitigating structural damage.

The proposed framework provides a reliable and practical numerical tool for designing and optimizing blast-resistant composite structures, offering valuable guidance for aerospace, Defence, and automotive engineers to develop lighter and safer structural components capable of withstanding severe explosion environments.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Mechanics of Advanced Composite Structures

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 16 February 2026

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