An investigation on hybrid interface using on-line monitoring experiment and finite element analyses

In this work, the hybrid interface between metal and thermosetting polymer matrix composite was studied via experimental and numerical investigations. Hybrid laminates, whose constituents are aluminum foil, carbon fabric and epoxy matrix, were manufactured using the vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process. Chromic anodization was used to treat the surfaces of the aluminum foil prior to fabricating the hybrid laminates. The mode-I dominated delamination behavior was studied using the double cantilever beam tests at both room (25oC) and elevated (60oC) temperatures. Distributed strain profiles were measured on both the top and bottom of the specimen using Rayleigh backscattering fiber optics technique. Finite element analysis was performed to assist with the analysis and interpretation of experimental results. Load-displacement and strain profiles measured from experiments were compared with values obtained numerically. Good agreements between the experimental and numerical results were observed.