Hoop strength characterization of high strength carbon fibre composites

An experimental and computational investigation to determine basic properties and hoop strength characteristics of two ultra-high strength carbon fibre composites is described. The method of composite manufacture is shown to have a profound effect on the results. Experimental results for elastic modulus and tensile strength were found in close agreement and generally lower than those published by the manufacturers. Results for Poisson's ratio, not previously available, are also reported. The experimental data for shell strength were gathered using a newly developed hydraulic rig and the results were found to be in general agreement with those obtained from finite-element computation, although the computed results showed much higher bore stresses due to internal pressure, signifying a lack of load transmission to the outer fibres.