Quasi-static indentation response of core-shell particle reinforced novel NCCF/Elium® composites at different feed rates

In the current research, the static indentation properties of composite laminates toughened by the addition of core-shell (C/SH) particles at the interfaces of non-crimp carbon fibre (NCCF)/Elium® composite laminate is investigated. NCCF/Elium® composite exhibited improved static indentation performance with an increase in the feed rate. There is a 19.6% and 13.5% increase in peak load with no particle reinforcement and 5% C/SH respectively when the feed rate was increased from 1 mm/min to 10 mm/min. Also, the 27% drop in the intensity of the major load drop was noticed when the interply region was toughened by the addition of 5% of the C/SH particles. Microscopic observations also showed reduced delamination with the increase of C/SH particles. The progressive failure was reduced due to increased energy absorption and delayed onset of fibre breakage and delamination.