Damage mechanisms and failure modes in cross-ply laminates under monotonic tensile loading: The influence of fiber sizing

In this study, the effect of fiber-matrix interphase on the damage modes and failure mechanisms in (0, 90₃), cross-ply graphite-toughened epoxy laminates is investigated. Two material systems (designated as 810 A and 810 O) with the same fiber and same matrix, but with different fiber sizings, were used to study the effect of the interphase. The system designated as 810 A contained an unreacted Bisphenol-A (epoxy) sizing, while a thermoplastic polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) sizing was used in the 810 O system. Damage accumulation in the cross-ply laminates under monotonic tensile loading was monitored using edge replication, x-ray radiography, acoustic emission, optical and scanning electron microscopy. Results indicate that the fiber-matrix bond strength is lower in the 810 O system compared to the 810 A system. Transverse matrix cracking initiates at a significantly lower stress level in the 810 O laminate. The 810 O laminates also exhibit longitudinal splitting, while the stronger bonding suppress this damage mode in the 810 A laminates. Numerous local delamination occur on the 0/90 interface at the intersection of 0 and 90 degree ply cracks, in the 810 O laminates. These are absent in the 810 A laminates. The failure modes are also different in the two material systems used in this study. The 810 A laminate exhibits a brittle failure, controlled by the local stress concentration effects near broken fibers. In the 810 O laminates, the presence of longitudinal splits result in the reduction of stress concentration effects near fibe fractures. This results in a global strain controlled failure in the 810 O system. It is concluded that the presence of different fiber sizings result in different damage modes and failure mechanisms in the cross-ply laminates used in this study.Research Associate, Research Assistant, Alexander Giacco Professor and Professor respectively.