Characterizing the strain rate sensitivity of the tensile mechanical properties of a thermoplastic composite

Thermoplastic composites (TPCs) are being given increased consideration for application in vehicle front-end structural crash components. However, studies on the high strainrate behavior of TPCs have been relatively limited. In this study, the effect of strain rate on the tensile properties of a woven fabric commingled E-glass/polypropylene thermoplastic composite was investigated over a strain-rate range of 10⁻⁴ to 70 s⁻¹. Quasi-static tests were conducted in an electromechanical universal test machine. A specially designed test rig in conjunction with a falling weight drop tower was used for high strain-rate characterization. The experimental results show that the elastic modulus, ultimate strength, and strain to failure increase with increasing strain rate.