Abstract
This study investigates the tensile properties of UACS (unidirectional arrayed chopped strands) laminates with different slit patterns. UACS composite is a kind of short fiber reinforced polymer by introducing slits into prepregs before the fabrication of laminates. Existing UACS composites have superior flowability but relatively low tensile strength compared to conventional CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer). Consequently, many efforts have been made to improve the strength of UACS composites. In this study, two new discontinuous slit patterns, staggered pattern and bi-angled pattern, have been developed. Tensile tests reveal that two new UACS laminates with staggered and bi-angled slit patterns have higher strength and higher stiffness than existing UACS laminates with continuous slits. Discontinuity of slits plays an important role in inhibiting the development of delamination. Different slit patterns show different failure modes.
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