Investigation of mechanical properties and damage types of E-glass fiber reinforced epoxy matrix composites under various loadings

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive experimental investigation to determine the elastic material properties of a unidirectional E-glass fiber/epoxy composite. Tension, compression, in-plane shear, and flexural tests were conducted in both longitudinal and transverse directions. The composite laminates were manufactured using vacuum-assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) with a 65% fiber weight fraction. Mechanical tests were performed according to ASTM standards, and special fixtures were used for shear and compression tests. The damage mechanisms were interpreted for each test, revealing fiber splitting in tension and kink band failure in compression were dominant damage modes. The findings provide valuable insights into the behavior and performance of the composite under various loading conditions, which may help in its application in different engineering fields.