In this paper, a type of easily-prepared adhesive multi-cell tube is investigated by experimental and numerical methods. The deformation and specific energy absorption of the multi-cell tubes under three-point bending condition are analyzed. Quasi-static three-point bending tests show that adhesive multi-cell tubes perform generally higher energy absorption capacity than their constituent single-cell tubes, and in some case, up to 70% can be achieved due to the effect of adhesive. Numerical simulations of the three-point bending tests are conducted by LS-DYNA. The deformed patterns and punch force-displacement curves are consistent with test results. In addition, three different interface conditions and foam-filled tubes which are the same weight with adhesive multi-cell tubes are simulated to analyze and compare the response of adhesive multi-cell tubes. Results show that energy absorption characteristics of adhesive multi-cell tubes are comparable to traditional multi-cell tubes if there is no obvious adhesive detachment. Otherwise the performances of adhesive multi-cell tubes will be seriously weakened.
