Developing a Multiscale Test Approach for Characterizing Polymer Composites

Abstract

A systematic series of experimental characterization efforts have been applied to a novel advanced fiber reinforced nanocomposite material composed of carbon fiber doped with carbon nanotubes in a thermoplastic polymer. A novel depositional process has been developed and refined in order to obtain homogeneous and isotropic dispersion of the CNTs onto the interfacial surface of interest. Fracture mechanics characterization efforts under Mode I and Mode II loading have been investigated to quantify critical strain energy release rate values and study the complex fracture processes. Finite element simulations have complimented the fracture analysis in order to elucidate mechanisms at work during the precipitation and propagation. Thermal analytical responses have been measured using differential scanning calorimetry and thermal gravimetric analysis, while temperature dependent viscoelastic properties have been characterized through variable amplitude dynamic mechanical analysis. Significant increases in the energy absorption characteristics during deformation and fracture behavior have been directly measured for this CNT enhanced material system. This CNT modified CFRP material shows extreme promise for improving interply adhesion and inhibiting delamination.