Basic research opportunities exist to develop advanced analysis methods to predict the behavior of composites under impact loading. Advancement of the current state-of-the-art analysis methods and development of novel modeling approaches are needed to address the durability and damage tolerance of composite aircraft structures. Sub-surface delamination is the predominant cause of failure observed in experiments, but matrix cracking, fiber breakage and ply-splitting also take place during an impact. Development of advanced numerical tools to capture these failure mechanisms and predict the remaining strength and life after an impact event is expected. Facilities at AFRL can accommodate state-of-art testing and characterization, including high fidelity NDI techniques, high-speed imaging capabilities, instrumented impact testing, and large-scale structural testing.

Additional Benefits

Awardees who reside more than 50 miles from their host laboratory and remain on tenure for at least six months are eligible for paid relocation to within the vicinity of their host laboratory.

A group health insurance program is available to awardees and their qualifying dependents in the United States.