Interlaminar shear strength of C/C-composites: the dependence on test methods

The interlaminar shear strengths of laminar materials (one- and two-directi onally carbon fiber-reinforced carbon composites) are examined by 3-point b end of short beam (SB) and double-notched compression (DNC) methods. The se rrated load versus displacement curve in SE test is related to multiple int erlaminar shear failures. The conventional interlaminar shear strength of S E is always and significantly larger than that of DNC. However, the shear s trength of SE modified on the basis of the microfracture processes and mech anisms for shear failure is in excellent agreement with that of DNC. (C) 19 99 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.