Influence of mode ratio and hygrothermal condition on the delamination toughness of a thermoplastic particulate interlayered carbon/epoxy composite

B. D. Davidson, M. Kumar, M. A. Soffa

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

66 Scopus citations

Abstract

Double cantilever beam, end-notched flexure and single leg bending tests were used to determine the effects of temperature and moisture on the toughness of a thermoplastic particulate-toughened carbon/epoxy composite. Tests were performed on both dry and moisture-saturated specimens at temperatures of -43 °C, 21 °C and 98 °C, and on dry specimens only at 125 °C. In-situ observations and post-test scanning electron microscopy showed increasing matrix ductility with increasing temperature and moisture content. This correlated to an increase in the mode I and a decrease in the mode II toughness. The mixed-mode toughness data and fracture surface morphologies displayed a blend of the mode I and mode II behaviors.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)67-79
Number of pages13
JournalComposites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing
Volume40
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2009

Keywords

  • A. Polymer-matrix composites
  • B. Delamination
  • B. Environmental degradation
  • B. Interface/interphase

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ceramics and Composites
  • Mechanics of Materials

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Influence of mode ratio and hygrothermal condition on the delamination toughness of a thermoplastic particulate interlayered carbon/epoxy composite'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this