Determination of anisotropic mechanical properties of G-10 composite via Direct Strain Imaging

The mechanical properties of the glass-epoxy composite material known as “G-10,” which is primarily used for electrical insulation purposes in electromechanical systems, have long been a topic of uncertainty and controversy. In the present paper, we demonstrate the application of an experimental methodology that exploits the Direct Strain Imaging (DSI) full field method to fully assess the elastic anisotropic mechanical properties of G-10. Tension and compression experiments were conducted for three distinct inclinations of the specimen orthotropic axes relative to the loading directions, while strain and displacement were monitored at relevant locations on the specimens via digital image capturing and subsequent application of DSI. Based on these experiments, we present the stress-strain experimental data, the associated data post processing, the engineering properties, the anisotropic compliance matrix and the ultimate strength properties of the G-10 composite material. Confidence bounds on the material properties based on the results from repeated tests on identical specimens are also reported.