Dynamic Response of Symmetric and Asymmetric E-Glass / Epoxy Laminates at High Strain Rates

The mechanical properties of E-glass/epoxy composite at high strain rates are important in evaluating this kind of composite under dynamic and impulsive loading. The in-plane and out-of-plane compressive properties at strain rates from 300 to 2500 s-1 were tested with split Hopkinson pressure bar. Samples were tested in the thickness as well as in-plane direction for seven fibre orientations: 0°, 20°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 70° and 90°. The kinetics of damage and the failure modes were identified using a high-speed photography, infrared camera, optical techniques and a scanning electron microscope. Results of the study were analyzed in terms of maximum stress, Strain at maximum stress, failure modes, damage history and fibres orientation effects. From the experimental data, the stress-strain curves, compressive stiffness, and compressive strain of the composite are rate-sensitive in in-plane and out-of-plane compressive directions. The failure and damage mechanisms are implicitly related to the rise in temperature during static and dynamic compression.