Mechanical Evaluation and Damage Assessment of Fabric-Based Polymer Composite Materials

Abstract

This study explores how different types of fabric weaves and fiber orientations affect the mechanical strength of polymer matrix composites reinforced with fabric. The research is aligned with material selection for a new rotorcraft application. Four distinct laminate configurations were created using a manual lay-up technique and MGSL285/H285 epoxy resin. A set of triple-index tests was conducted, including Shore hardness testing, tensile strength evaluation, and fractographic analysis. Each laminate group displayed unique mechanical responses, particularly in terms of stiffness and strength, influenced by the weave structure and layering direction. Three primary failure mechanisms were identified during testing. Poisson’s ratio varied among the samples, although no definitive correlation with the weave or orientation was established. Microscopic examination pointed to the occurrence of intralaminar delamination within the composite layers.

Cite as:

Manjunath T.N. (2025). Mechanical Evaluation and Damage Assessment of Fabric-Based Polymer Composite Materials. Research and Reviews: Journal of Mechanical Engineering, 1(2), 40–53. 

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16406591