Epoxy aluminium hybrid foam - An innovative sandwich core material with improved energy absorption characteristics

Solid foams are important core materials for sandwich structures. One of their main advantages is their ability to perform in multi-functional applications combining the structural function of a sandwich core under regular service conditions with other functions. Especially the energy absorption capability under accidental crash or impact conditions has to be mentioned. Solid foams can be pro-cessed from different base materials with different advantages. Whereas polymeric foams are extremely lightweight materials, their energy absorption capability is limited. Here, metallic foams have advantageous properties, however, at a larger specific weight.