Abstract
Quasi-static tension tests were performed on tapered glass/epoxy laminates with internally dropped plies. In addition, a finite element analysis was conducted to determine the interlaminar stress states near the ply drop closest to the root of the taper. Four different internal ply drop configuration were examined which achieved the same transition in thickness. The delamination loads and corresponding bending stiffness losses were measured. The delamination onset loads varied by 38% and the bending stiffness retention varied by 56% among the internal ply drop configurations. Three of the four configurations delaminated in an unstable manner, while stable delamination initiation and growth occurred in one of the configurations. In general, a trade-off existed between the delamination strength and retention of bending stiffness. However, the configuration which delaminated in a stable fashion had the best bending stiffness retention as well as intermediate delamination strength.
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