Compression After Impact Testing of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic Laminates

Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) composite laminates are susceptible for multiple delaminations, which reduce the compressive strength significantly even when the impact load is insufficient to cause visible damage. The post-impact compression test is used widely to assess the relative performance of different composite laminates with different fiber matrix combinations. In the present work, CFRP (T300/914) laminates were subjected to low-velocity impact loading simulating tool drops and runway debris. Compression after impact (CAI) tests were performed using fixtures as per NASA specifications. Results obtained indicate definite correlation between impact energy, failure strain, and residual compressive strength.