Work

The effect of prepreg ply thickness in carbon fiber reinforced composites on intralaminar toughness and shear strength in cryogenic environments for liquid hydrogen storage tanks

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the effect of prepreg ply thickness on the intralaminar toughness and shear strength of carbon-fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) in room temperature and cryogenic environments. A toughened epoxy resin, optimized for ultra-low temperatures, was impregnated with unidirectional carbon-fibers at 45, 70, and 140 g/m 2 areal weights. The intralaminar energy release rates in modes I and II, along with the interlaminar shear strength , were evaluated under liquid nitrogen ( in-situ ) testing conditions to assess the performance of these composites in cryogenics. Optical and scanning electron microscopy correlated fiber-matrix distribution and regularity with failure modes and performance. While G IC decreased from 296 K to 77 K, ILSS was notably higher in cryogenic environments. Both intralaminar toughness and interlaminar strength were improved by thinner plies , especially at 77 K. Thus, highlighting the importance of fiber-matrix uniformity in optimizing delamination and shear properties under cryogenic conditions, where sensitivity to irregularities increases.

Source: Composites Part B Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.compositesb.2024.112077

Authors: Eduardo Szpoganicz, Fabian Hübner, Uwe Beier, Matthias Geistbeck, Holger Ruckdäschel

Institutions: University of Bayreuth, Airbus (Germany)

Language: English

Topic: Mechanical Behavior of Composites

Subfield: Mechanics of Materials

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $5,060

Funders: Bayerisches Staatsministerium für Wirtschaft, Infrastruktur, Verkehr und Technologie, Bayerische Staatsministerium für Wirtschaft, Landesentwicklung und Energie