This document summarizes an experimental and theoretical study on the impact behavior of 7020 aluminum alloy foam reinforced with alumina powder. Key findings include:
1) Experimental tests were conducted dropping a 0.71 kg weight onto aluminum foam samples from 1 m height. Accelerometer data showed increased acceleration with higher alumina powder weight fractions and smaller particle sizes.
2) A theoretical model of the impact was developed using conservation of energy and momentum principles. The model accounted for the spring-like behavior of the foam and was able to predict acceleration, velocity and displacement curves matching experiment.
3) Equations (9) and (10) show the relationship between impact force and foam properties like density and stiffness, providing