Influence of Electron Radiation on Tensile and Impact Fracture Mechanism of Carbon/PEEK Composite.

Abstract

An investigation has been carried out concerning the influence of electron radiation on tensile and impact fracture as well as compression after impact (CAI) behavior of carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic matrix composite (AS-4/PEEK), having a quasi-isotropic stacking sequence of [0°/±45°/90°]2s. Specimens were irradiated in air with electron energy of 1.5 MeV, resulting in total absorbed dose of 1000 Mrad. The tensile strength was higher in irradiated specimens than nonirradiated ones. The impact tests were carried out by a falling weight tester. Impact induced delamination was observed with a scanning acoustic microscope (SAM). The delamination area was evaluated by the subtraction method. Impact-load-induced delamination area was increased by electron radiation. However, no influence of electron radiation on CAI strength was observed. The fracture surface was closely examined using a scanning electron microscope, and the fracture mechanisms were discussed.