In-plane column response of metallic corrugated core sandwich panels

The in-plane compressive response of corrugated core sandwich columns is investigated analytically, numerically, and experimentally. Failure mechanisms have been identified and include macro buckling, shear buckling, and face wrinkling. Analytical formulae are developed for these mechanisms and used to create failure mode maps as a function of column geometry and material properties. Failure maps are created using measured material properties of 304 stainless steel, from which corrugated core columns are designed to experimentally probe each failure regime. The results are compared to the predictions. The results demonstrate that the predictions accurately capture both the critical failure load and failure mechanism. They also highlight the influence of both local and global boundary conditions on the column response. Lastly, optimal corrugated core column designs that minimize mass for a given load capacity are calculated using the failure mode predictions. The results show that corrugated core columns compare favorably with competing pyramidal core and hat-stiffened panel designs and are a viable alternative for in-plane load bearing applications.