Abstract: The mechanical properties of X-cor (carbon fiber pins) reinforced foam core sandwich specimens are studied with a flat compress, core shear and three-point bending test. The fabrication process of the X-cor reinforced foam core sandwich is also presented. Testing results indicate that stiffness and failure load of X-cor reinforced foam core sandwich are much enhanced. The post load-bearing capability is found in the three-point bending and core shear test after initial crack, and a progressive failure process of the specimens is observed. Catastrophic damage occurres a long time after the initial crack appeares. Two mechanisms cause the progressive failure: the X-cor suppresses crack growth in the foam, and the face sheet is stiffened by the fiber pins in bending load.

Key words: X-cor reinforcement, foam core sandwich, failure process, mechanical property, progressive failure