High Strain Rate Response of Angle-Ply Glass/Epoxy Laminates

Abstract

The effects of strain rate on the mechanical behavior of Scotchply Type 1002 glass/epoxy angle-ply laminates is investigated. High strain rate tests (approximately 10 3 sec −1 ) using a direct tension split Hopkinson bar apparatus and quasi-static tests (strain rate of approximately 10 −4 sec −1 ) using a servo-hydraulic testing machine have been conducted. Results indicate that the maximum normal stress experienced by glass/epoxy laminates is higher for dynamic than for quasi-static loading conditions. Although both fibers and matrix are sensitive to the strain rate, the fibers influence laminate rate sensitivity more than the matrix.