Abstract:

Two types of laminates were tested using TCT specimen in order to evaluate the effects of temperature and humidity on delamination fracture toughness under Mode Ⅱ loading. The pre exposed specimens were tested under three environmental conditions, and fracture energies during initiation and propagation were estimated. It was indicated that fracture toughness appears to be significantly reduced by increased test temperature and moisture content in the material; and the delamination fracture energy was more sensitive to temperature effects than to moisture over the ranges studied. The failed specimens were examined by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The effect of moisture on fracture topography could not be distinguished.

Key words: hygr ot hermal effect, delamination, cr ack gr owth r ate, st rain ener gy r elease r ate, composit e lamina tes