Journal Published Online: 01 December 1993
Volume 15, Issue 4

Round Robin Testing for Mode I Interlaminar Fracture Toughness of Composite Materials

CODEN: JCTRER

Abstract

This report summarizes the results of several interlaboratory “round robin” test programs for measuring the Mode I interlaminar fracture toughness of advanced fiber-reinforced composite materials. Double cantilever beam (DCB) tests were conducted by participants in ASTM Committee D-30 on High Modulus Fibers and Their Composites and by representatives of the European Group on Fracture (EGF) and the Japanese Industrial Standards Group (JIS). DCB tests were performed on three AS4 carbon fiber-reinforced composite materials: AS4/3501-6 with a brittle epoxy matrix, AS4/BP907 with a tough epoxy matrix, and AS4/PEEK with a tough thermoplastic matrix. Difficulties encountered in manufacturing panels, as well as conducting the tests, are discussed. Critical issues that developed during the course of the testing are highlighted. Results of the round robin testing used to determine the precision of the ASTM DCB test standard are summarized.

Author Information

O'Brien, TK
U.S. Army Research Laboratory, Vehicle Structures Directorate, NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA
Martin, RH
Analytical Services and Materials, Inc., Hampton, VA
Pages: 13
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: CTR10379J
ISSN: 0884-6804
DOI: 10.1520/CTR10379J