Demonstration of a dynamic polymer composite connector

This paper introduces the dynamic polymer composite (DPC) connector concept for creating structural joints of tubular composite members. DPC connector s are fiber-reinforced tubular elements featuring pretensioned circumferent ial fibers and a thermoplastic matrix. Application of heat softens the ther moplastic, allowing the circumferential fibers to clamp the connector onto the tubes to be joined. A laboratory demonstration of the DPC connector con cept is described. General design relationships are presented to relate the basic performance measures to material properties and prestress levels. Th e need to maximize certain properties of the prestressing fiber and the the rmoplastic matrix is discussed.