A Study on Fracture Toughness of Advanced Structural Composites,
Abstract
The basic concept of structural fracture in homogeneous, isotropic materials is discussed. Fundamental relationships associated with the linear elastic fracture mechanics, based on the Griffith Irwin approach, are presented. Discussed next are properties of fiber reinforced (or filamentary) composite materials from fracture mechanics point of view. Representative fracture test results are then reviewed and analyzed. Involved in the tests are numerous composites such as beryllium/aluminum, glass/epoxy, Scotchply, boron/aluminum, graphite/polyimide, etc. Some of these nonhomogeneous anisotropic composites are unidirectionally reinforced, while other are angle plied. Finally, the fracture phenomenon and process in filamentary composites are discussed in details. It is found that the linear elastic fracture mechanics is applicable to most composite materials which have been investigated. It is nevertheless premature and risky to predict the applicability of the theory to the filamentary composite materials in general. Also made in this report are recommendations for future work on fracture of structural composites intended for high performance flight vehicles.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 31, 1973
- Accession Number
- ADA325973
Entities
People
- George C. Chang
Organizations
- Naval Air Warfare Center Warminster