Table 1 Comparison of commonly used energy-absorbing materials.
Energy-absorbing materials | Structure | Energy absorption mechanisms | Strengths | limitations | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tubular structure10 | Elastic–plastic structure | Bending, tearing, buckling, etc | Featuring simplicity in structure and ease of manufacturing | Limited energy absorption capability | Widely applied |
Foam materials11 | Porous structure | Compression failure, penetration, etc | Lightweight | The physical and chemical properties may not be sufficiently stable, lower strength | Automobiles, packaging materials, sports equipment etc |
Granular materials1 | Porous structure | Friction, Elastic–plastic deformation, fragmentation, etc | Fluidity, allowing for versatile applications and shapes | Loose granular materials require external constraint | Marine engineering, noise and vibration control, underground protection projects, etc |
Energy absorbing composite structures (EACS)12 | Dispersed structure, layered structure, etc | Fiber/matrix cracking, crazing, local buckling, delamination, etc | Diverse types with excellent energy-absorbing performance | Complex fabrication and higher costs | Automotive, aircraft, protective armor, etc |
