Experimental research into interlaminar tensile strength of carbon/epoxy laminated curved beams

The interlaminar tensile strength of carbon/epoxy laminated curved beams with variable thicknesses is experimentally studied by means of a four-point-bending test. Firstly, the relationships between the used formulae and the results obtained are analyzed on the curved beams with different thicknesses and tested in compliance with ASTM D6415 standard. Secondly, both the interlaminar tensile stresses and the post-failure behaviour are determined. Finally, the critical area, where delamination begins, is reinforced through-the-thickness by means of tufting technology with different densities. The influence on the maximum interlaminar tensile stress as well as delamination evolution of the carbon/epoxy laminated curved beams are analyzed. These results play an important role in the prediction of interlaminar tensile strength and post failure behaviour of laminated curved beams.