Relation between interlaminar fracture toughness and pressure condition in autoclave molding process of GFRP composite laminates
Jiang Jianye; Motogi Shinya; Fukuda Takehito
Abstract:Relation between fracture toughness and pressure condition in autoclave molding of GF composite laminates is investigated. Glass/epoxy prepregs are molded under different curing pressures, and UD laminates of [08]T and [016]T are fabricated. The results of the double cantilever beam (DCB) test show that the curing pressure has certain influences on the interlaminar fracture toughness via the change in morphology of matrix resin and fibers between laminate, and via the change in interfacial strength of fiber and matrix. It is also found that the fiber/matrix interfacial strength increases as the curing pressure increases by SEM photographs of the fracture surface in GF UD laminates. Key Words:interlaminar fracture toughness, GFRP composite laminate, pressure condition, autoclave molding process, fiber/matrix interfacial strength