Fractographic Analysis of Failures in CFRP,
Abstract
A wide-ranging fractographic research program, from the fundamental characterisation of test coupon fractures to the failure analysis of full-scale aerospace components, has been undertaken in Materials and Structures Department, RAE. This paper describes work on unidirectional CFRP test coupons in which a known mode of failure had been produced, the modes being longitudinal and transverse tension, compression and shear. From a fundamental understanding of the character of the different modes and of the mechanisms of fracture propagation it is shown how the qualitative significance of micro-defects occurring in good quality laminates may be assessed. The defects considered are fibre faults, fibre-matrix bond strength, fibre distribution, fibre alignment and voids and inclusions; these are illustrated and their individual and collective significance discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADP001910
Entities
People
- D. Purslow
Organizations
- Royal Aircraft Establishment