Improving the structural properties of composite T-joints by z-weaving of continuous metallic filaments

An experimental investigation is presented into improving the maximum load limit and other structural properties of T-shaped laminate joints by through-thickness weaving of thin metal filaments. Preforms of carbon fibre T-joints are first woven using continuous metallic or fibrous filaments made of copper, steel or carbon fibre yarns and then infused with epoxy. Stiffener pull-off tests performed on the cured T-joints show that the stainless...