An experimental study on the failure of carbon/epoxy single lap riveted joints after thermal exposure

The bearing strength of a blind riveted single lap joint of a carbon/epoxy composite after thermal exposure was studied. Considering the maximum service temperature based on material specifications and glass transition temperature, six types of specimens were prepared and tested in accordance with ASTM D5961. Failure loads of specimens exposed to a 177 °C environment were above 90% compared to sound specimens. Failure loads of 77% were obtained for specimens exposed to a 232 °C environment for 4 h. Bearing and rivet pulling-through failure modes were observed in all specimens. Delamination caused by degradation of the matrix property was found in specimens exposed to temperature higher than 204 °C.