A Study of Failure Characteristics in Thermoplastic Composite Material.
Abstract
The recently introduced thermoplastic composite material, graphite polyetherether-ketone (Gr/PEEK) APC-2, promises lower costs, lower part weight, and higher operating temperatures. This new class of organic material has fracture toughness properties superior to those of graphite epoxy. This thesis examines the failure characteristics of Gr/PEEK through an experimental investigation and through the application of a fully nonlinear ply-by ply finite element technique. The experimental investigation of Gr/PEEK APC-2 involved the testing of 34 tension and compression coupons to derive basic material properties for use with the finite element program. This investigation provided further data on the application of tensile loads to Gr/PEEK containing circular discontinuities. This study also proved that a nonlinear finite element program can closely approximate progressive ply failure in a Gr/PEEK laminate. This research reinforced the proposition that the thermoplastic matrix does produce a reliable composite that should be considered for use on aircraft, spacecraft, and space facilities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA190613
Entities
People
- Robert J. Martin
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology