Effect of inter-ply hybridization on flexural and dynamic mechanical properties of carbon-kevlar/epoxy hybrid composites

Abstract

The flexural and viscoelastic behavior of a Carbon fiber epoxy matrix composite, Kevlar fiber epoxy matrix composite, Carbon-Kevlar fiber epoxy matrix hybrid composite used for aerospace structures have been evaluated. The influences of inter-ply hybridization and material characteristics on flexural and viscoelastic properties were studied. The viscoelastic property characterization is analyzed through dynamic mechanical technique. Also, wicket plot (Cole-Cole) is generated on composites to differentiate the material system of either homogenous or heterogeneous. The composite laminates having a carbon fibers at the extremes yielded a better flexural strength. The material loss factor (tan delta) indicated the highest value of glass transition temperature. The glass transition temperature obtained through peak of loss modulus is more definite in compared to the value measured from the peak of material loss factor. The experimentations indicated that flexural behavior, dynamic modulus and loss factor might be attained thru inter-ply hybridization towards a particular applications.