In Situ Scanning Electron Microscopy Investigation of Flexural and Interlaminar Failure Mechanisms in Carbon Nanotube‐Reinforced Shape Memory Polymer Composites
Randomized trial investigates failure mechanisms in carbon nanotube-reinforced composites, suggesting BP interleaves enhance toughness.
Key Points
This research aims to explore the flexural properties and interlaminar fracture mechanisms of carbon nanotube reinforced shape memory polymer composites.
Used in situ scanning electron microscopy for mechanical performance evaluation.
Investigated two architectures: SMP-impregnated buckypaper interleaves and dispersed CNTs in glass fiber SMP laminates.
Conducted mechanical testing to observe damage initiation and evolution under flexural loading.
BP interleaves suppressed catastrophic kink-band failure, enhancing flexural properties.
Significant improvement in Mode II fracture toughness (G IIc) with BP interleaves compared to baseline and dispersed CNTs identified.
Delamination propagation was governed by sequential failure mechanisms, with BP interleave rupture preceding crack propagation.