Work of Fracture of Composites in Axial Compression - Measurement and Origins

Abstract

Composite materials are being introduced into weapon systems and launch platforms of many kinds, increasingly as thick sections which accept high compressive stress. A common mode of failure is then by kink band propagation, arising from holes or other stress-raisers. The fibres broken in the process then cause weakness in tension as well. The tolerance of stress-raisers depends upon the energy required to propagate such kink bands. This report shows how to determine and to adjust this compressive work of fracture, and suggests how much energy different mechanisms may contribute. The work can be as little as 2-3J/sq cm when it is concentrated in a narrow band. Multiple kink bands may require up to 400 J/CU CM for continuous crushing, and important ballistic feature if it can be sustained.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 01, 1990
Accession Number
ADA227580

Entities

People

  • N. J. Savage

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer
  • Carbon Fibers
  • Composite Materials
  • Compressive Strength
  • Electron Microscopes
  • Electron Microscopy
  • Failure Mode And Effect Analysis
  • Hydrostatic Pressure
  • Materials
  • Materials Processing
  • Materials Testing
  • Measurement
  • Mechanical Working
  • Mechanics
  • Microscopes
  • Standards
  • Test Equipment

Readers

  • Atmospheric Science / Meteorology, specifically Wind Wave Turbulence.
  • Pulsed Power and Plasma Physics.
  • Structural Health Monitoring of Composite Structures.