Abstract
A study has been made of the interlaminar (transverse) fracture of glass and graphite fabric composites. A double cantilever beam specimen was used and was width-tapered for constant change in compliance with crack length so that the fracture energy calculation is independent of crack length. It was found that the interlaminar fracture energy could be significantly increased either by the addition of elastomeric toughening agents to the epoxy matrix or by using a thermoplastic matrix resin instead of an epoxy. The largest increase in interlaminar fracture energy (approximately eight-fold) was obtained for an epoxy matrix/graphite fabric composite by the addition of elastomeric modifiers.
Published Version
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