Double Cantilever Beam Measurement and Finite Element Analysis of Cryogenic Mode I Interlaminar Fracture Toughness of Glass-Cloth/Epoxy Laminates

An experimental and analytical investigation in cryogenic Mode I interlaminar fracture behavior and toughness of SL-E woven glass-epoxy laminates was conducted. Double cantilever beam (DCB) tests were performed at room temperature (R.T.), liquid nitrogen temperature (77 K), and liquid helium temperature (4 K) to evaluate the effect of temperature and geometrical variations on the interlaminar fracture toughness. The fracture surfaces were examined by scanning electron microscopy to verify the fracture mechanisms. A finite element model was used to perform the delamination crack analysis. Critical load levels and the geometric and material properties of the test specimens were input data for the analysis which evaluated the Mode I energy release rate at the onset of delamination crack propagation. The results of the finite element analysis are utilized to supplement the experimental data.