Fractographic analysis of damage mechanisms dominated by delamination in composite laminates

Abstract

Polymer composite laminates have established themselves as essential materials across a wide type of industrial fields because of their specific mechanical properties such as high strength and low weight. Among the main issues they face is susceptibility to delamination damage. This comprehensive review paper investigates various damage mechanisms and associated phenomena that obvious during delamination within polymer composite laminates. Delamination can primarily arise in Mode I, Mode II and mixed Mode I &II loading scenarios. Notably, the damage features can vary significantly between these conditions. This paper aims to characterize and identify delamination-dominated damage features by conducting a comprehensive examination of the parameters that influence these features, all based on an extensive literature review and utilizing fractography analysis. The findings of this review illustrate the valuable insights that can be obtained from delamination fracture surfaces through the utilization of fractography images and the examination of damage features. For instance, it is possible to recognize details such as determining of global crack growth direction, calculating the rate of fatigue crack growth, and anticipating of strain energy released rate. This deeper understanding aids in pinpointing the key factors contributing to delamination damage. It could offer valuable insights for designing composites resistant to delamination. Additionally, it may assist in determining the underlying causes of catastrophic failures in tragic events.