Effect of sample cutting direction on mechanical properties of woven thermoplastic prepreg

Woven textile composites are gaining popularity, judging from the many repo rts. However, in many instances they are confined to thermoset matrices. In view of many favorable circumstances, thermoplastic-based systems are slow ly gaining recognition, which can be easily attributed to their unique prop erties, viz. better damage tolerance, ease of handling, recyclability, etc. However, reports usually refer to materials derived from fabrics, either p reimpregnated or otherwise. Here, a combination of weaving and thermoplasti c elements was studied through the utilization of continuous fiber impregna ted thermoplastic prepreg (COFIT) to produce a woven system. The effect of sample cutting direction on the prepreg plain weave properties was examined . Correlations between different specimen geometries and weave characterist ics were also noted. In general, the specimen cutting directions give rise to various differences in weaving characteristics, which in turn influence the properties obtained. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved .