Abstract
This paper summarizes various studies that we have carried out on the energy absorption behavior of fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite tubes. Failure mechanisms associated with progressive crushing of composite tubes were identified. It has been shown that the energy absorption capability depends on both intrinsic factors such as fiber material, matrix material, fiber architecture, etc. and extrinsic factors such as testing speed, temperature, tube geometry, etc. Ideas for optimizing the energy absorption capabilities of thermoplastic composite materials are also presented.