Fundamental studies of low velocity impact resistance of graphite fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites

Thesis/Dissertation · Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1985

OSTI ID:5136440

Bowles, K J

A study was conducted to relate the impact resistance of graphite fiber reinforced composites with matrix properties through gaining an understanding of the basic mechanics involved in the deformation and fracture process, and the effect of the polymer matrix structure on these mechanisms. It was found that the resin matrix structure influences the composite impact resistance in at least two ways. The integration of flexibilizers into the polymer chain structure tends to reduce the T/sub G/ and the mechanical properties of the polymer. The reduction in the mechanical properties of the matrix does not enhance the composite impact resistance because it allows matrix controlled failure to initiate impact damage. Linear polymers, which contain no active groups for cross-linking, do not toughen composites because the fiber-matrix interfacial bond is not of sufficient strength to prevent interfacial failure from occurring. Toughness must be built into the basic polymer backbone and cross-linking structure.

• Research Organization: Case Western Reserve Univ., Cleveland, OH (USA)
• OSTI ID: 5136440
• Resource Relation: Other Information: Thesis (Ph. D.)
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
COMPOSITE MATERIALS
IMPACT TESTS
MATRIX MATERIALS
POLYMERS
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
CARBON FIBERS
FIBERS
MATERIALS
MATERIALS TESTING
MECHANICAL TESTS
TESTING
360303* - Composite Materials- Mechanical Properties- (-1987)
360403 - Materials- Polymers & Plastics- Mechanical Properties- (-1987)