Compression behavior of woven glass/epoxy specimens using a new end‐loaded hybrid specimen

Abstract

A new compression specimen was applied to woven glass/epoxy laminates. The specimen consists of epoxy layers cast on the sides of the laminate to prevent buckling. Thin-sheet aluminum ends enable alignment and avoid crushing under end loading, which does not require any special fixture. The compression stress-strain behavior of the laminate was obtained from the specimens by discounting the previously measured stress-strain curve of the epoxy backings. Despite the higher scatter in compression tests, the average modulus was practically identical to the tensile modulus. Moreover, failure occurred away from the ends in nearly all of the specimens tested. The average compressive strength was 84% of the tensile strength and consistent with the flexural strength measured in four-point bending tests. The present compression specimen could, therefore, become an interesting alternative to the more elaborate standard test methods available. Nevertheless, this new compression testing approach needs further evaluation involving application to other materials. POLYM. COMPOS., 32:491-496, 2011. ª