Delamination properties of z-pinned composites in hot–wet environment

The effect of hot–wet environment (75 °C and 85% relative humidity) on the delamination fracture properties and interlaminar toughening mechanisms of z-pinned carbon fibre–epoxy composite is investigated. The absorption rate of water from the hot–wet environment into the composite is accelerated slightly by z-pins, although the pins did not change the saturation limit of the material. Absorbed water weakens the pin/composite interface and this...