Quasi-static and impact fracture behaviors of CFRPs with nanoclay-filled epoxy matrix

The influence of nanoclay on the fracture resistance and mechanical properties of epoxy-based nanocomposites and the corresponding continuous carbon fiber–epoxy matrix composites (CFRPs) has been studied. The incorporation of nanoclay into epoxy and CFRP enhances the impact and quasi-static fracture resistance, as well as the flexural strength and modulus of the composites. Microscopic examination based on the double-notch bending test identifies pertinent toughening mechanisms responsible for the enhanced toughness of clay nanocomposites, namely microcracking, crack pining, crack tip bifurcation and deflection, and microvoids along the clay galleries. Multi-layer delaminations are among the key toughening mechanisms identified for the clay–CFRP hybrid composites.