Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
7891998 | Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing | 2015 | 11 Pages |
Abstract
This work investigated the ability of graphene nanoplatelets (GnPs) to improve the interlaminar mechanical properties of glass-reinforced multilayer composites. A novel method was developed for the inclusion of GnPs into the interlaminar regions of plain-weave, glass fabric fiber-reinforced/epoxy polymer composites processed with vacuum assisted resin transfer molding. Flexural tests showed a 29% improvement in flexural strength with the addition of only 0.25Â wt% GnP. At the same concentration, mode-I fracture toughness testing revealed a 25% improvement. Additionally, low-velocity drop weight impact testing showed improved energy absorption capability with increasing concentration of GnPs. Ultrasonic C-scans and dye penetration inspection of the impact- and back-sides of the specimens qualitatively support these results. Finally, the impact damage area was quantified from the C-scan data. These results showed that the impact-side damage area decreased with increasing concentration of GnP, while the back-side damage area increased.
Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering
Materials Science
Ceramics and Composites
Authors
Nicholas T. Kamar, Mohammad Mynul Hossain, Anton Khomenko, Mahmood Haq, Lawrence T. Drzal, Alfred Loos,