SEDL / STP / STP1203-EB / STP14906S

Fractographic Analysis of Quasi-Isotropic Laminates Loaded in Compression

Pinnell, WB
Assistant Research Engineer,

Crasto, AS
Materials Scientist,

Kim, RY
Senior Research Engineer, University of Dayton Research Institute, Dayton, OH

Pages: 17    Published: Jan 1993

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Abstract

Graphite/epoxy specimens with two different quasi-isotropic layups ([0/45/90/ - 45]^s and [0/±60]^s) were tested in axial compression in an IITRI test fixture using both miniature sandwich specimens and all-laminate coupons. Fractographic examinations of the tested specimens' cross-sections and fracture surfaces were conducted. The initial failure events, sequence of failure events and failure modes were determined for each specimen. Stress analysis was used to calculate the ply stresses within the laminate and determine the interlaminar stresses at each interface, and thereby predict the failure mode and location of failure within the laminate in conjunction with a failure theory. Analytical results supported the conclusions of the fractographic investigation.