The Influence of Embedded Optical Fibers on the Interlamina Fracture Toughness of Composite Materials

Abstract

An important issue in the development of this technology concerns the influence of the optical fibers on the properties of the structures within which they are imbedded. In particular, how do they affect the interlamina fracture toughness . This question is addressed in this paper. We have also attempted to answer the question: do embedded optical fibers act as crack initiators or terminators. These results will shortly be published.