Failure Analysis of Polymer-Based Composites

Abstract

Polymer composites are widely used in many engineering and commercial applications. So,in the recent two decades, the usage of polymer components has increased. Thus,research has emerged on polymer-based composites to enhance the performance and reduce the failure. In this chapter, various techniques for failure analysis are described. There are two main categories of failure analysis techniques. The first technique is to analyse the matrix material or the polymer portion, and the second technique analyses the reinforcement portion or fibre. This chapter provides an overview of polymer composites and the process flow of failure analysis. Fractural analysis is an important aspect of composite failure analysis. In this chapter, the delamination issue of matrix and reinforcement material is analysed. Finally, the fractural analysis techniques and procedures are described. The chapter also provides a summary to understand the failure analysis of polymer-based composites.