A new testing device to simultaneously measure the mode I fatigue delamination behavior of a batch of specimens

Determining fatigue onset and crack propagation curves for delamination in composites requires time-consuming test campaigns. This work presents a new test rig and its associated methodology to test several mode I specimens simultaneously in a universal testing machine. The novelty of the solution relies on being able to test several specimens at different levels of load ratio and energy release rates in a single run. The performance of the system is exemplified by measuring the complete onset and crack growth rate curves of a batch of 12 carbon fibre reinforced specimens in only two test runs.