Temperature effects on mixed mode I/II delamination under quasi-static and fatigue loading of a carbon/epoxy composite

This paper addresses the effect of temperature on the mixed-mode interlaminar fracture toughness and fatigue delamination growth rate of a carbon-fibre/epoxy material, namely IM7/8552. Quasi-static and fatigue characterisation tests were carried out at −50 °C, 20 °C, 50 °C and 80 °C, using asymmetric cut-ply coupons. The experimental results show that temperature may have an accelerating or delaying effect on delamination growth, depending on...