Effect of curvature and stacking sequence on flexural strength in glass fiber reinforced composites

Abstract

Most of the structures in vehicles used in the automotive, aviation, and marine industries are exposed to different loads. It is seen that these structures are more exposed to flexural stress. Structures can sustain dangerous damage over time under the effects of flexural loads. The resistance of curved glass fiber reinforced polymer composites to flexural force is very important. In this study, the diameters of curved composites of 760 mm, 380 mm, and 304mm are studied. Also, fiber stacking sequences were determined as [0/0/-45/+45/90/90](S) and [90/90/-45/+45/0/0](S) and compared. All specimens were produced by vacuum infusion method. Three-point flexural tests were performed according to the ASTM D7264 standard at 1mm.min(-1) punch speed. Among all composites, 760mm diameter and Type 2 stacking were found to have the highest flexural strength. Hence, it was observed that the flexural strength decreased with the increase in curvature, and Type 2 fiber layer sequencing is more durable than Type 1 sequencing. This is because the 90 degrees fiber direction in the substrate has a damping effect on the applied force.