(±45) Degree Off-Axis Tension Test for Shear Characterization of Plain Weave Fabric Composites

Abstract

Different test techniques for shear characterization are reassessed for their suitability for woven fabric composites. Considering the accuracy of results, ease of specimen fabrication, and simplicity of test technique, (±45) degree off-axis tension test is recommended for shear characterization of woven fabric composites. Calculations show that for typical E-glass/epoxy LY556 and T-300 carbon/epoxy LY556 two-dimensional orthogonal plain weave fabric laminates, the percentage shear contribution at failure is about 99 and 97–98, respectively. Hence, this test technique leads to a near pure shear condition in the test section for WF laminates.