Low Velocity Impact Response and Tensile Strength of Epoxy Composites with Different Reinforcing Materials

This paper presents the results of research concerning multilayered epoxy composites reinforced with different materials. The strength of multilayered composites depends, to a large extent, on the reinforcing material. The authors decided to compare the low velocity impact response and perform tensile strength tests on several composites, to ascertain the mechanical properties of the prepared composites. Five different reinforcing materials were provided for the research (two fabrics made from aramid fibers, two fabrics made from carbon fibers and one fabric made from polyethylene fibers). The composites were manufactured by the vacuum supported hand laminating method. The low velocity impact response tests were conducted with the use of a pneumatic launcher. Three strikers with different geometry (conical striker, hemispherical striker and ogival striker) were used. A comparison of the resulting damage to the composites after the impact of the strikers was based on the images obtained using an optical microscope; tensile tests were also performed. The experimental investigation showed significant differences in the mechanical properties of the composites, depending on the applied reinforcing material. It was found that, as a result of the impacts, less damage occurred in the composites which were characterized by a lower Young’s modulus and a higher tensile strength.