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 significa ntly even when the impact load is insufficient to cause visible damage. The post-impact compression test is used widely to assess the relative perform ance of different composite laminates with different fiber matrix combinati ons. In the present work, CFRP (T300/914) laminates were subjected to low-v elocity impact loading simulating tool drops and runway debris. Compression after impact (CAI) tests were performed using fixtures as per NASA specifi cations. Results obtained indicate definite correlation between impact ener gy, failure strain, and residual compressive strength.