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Electron radiation effects on Mode II interlaminar fracture toughness of GFRP and CFRP composites

Journal Article · · SAMPE Q.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6108264

The degradation properties of epoxy-based fiber-reinforced-plastics (FRP) composites irradiated by high-energy electrons were studied using the Mode II interlaminar fracture toughness G/sub IIc/, measured by end-notched flexure tests. The radiation-induced degradation mechanisms were investigated through G/sub IIc/ and the scanning electron micrographs of fracture surfaces. For GFRP, the significant decrease in G/sub IIc/ was found. Debonding of glass fibers and epoxy matrix (or degradation of silane coupling agents) plays an important role in degradation in addition to resin degradation. Thus, the improvement of the radiation resistance of fiber-resin interfaces as well as matrix itself is of supreme importance in order to increase the radiation resistance of GFRP. For CFRP, on the other hand, no degradation in fiber-resin interfaces was found and the slight decrease in G/sub IIc/ seems to be due to the resin degradation. 18 references, 6 figures.

Research Organization:
Kyushu Univ., Fukuoka (Japan)
OSTI ID:
6108264
Journal Information:
SAMPE Q.; (United States), Journal Name: SAMPE Q.; (United States) Vol. 20:2; ISSN SAMQA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English