Rate Dependent Strength Characterization of Carbon Fiber Composite Laminates

Abstract

The implementation of carbon fiber laminates in commercial vehicles is becoming increasingly common. Characterization of these materials for modeling is often completed at quasi-static loading rates regardless of the loading rates the final part will experience. This thesis will discuss the rate dependency of strength characteristics and Schapery parameters of a composite laminate under quasi-static, intermediate, and high rate loading conditions.