Tensile Strength and Fracture Behaviors of Complex GFRP Composites with a Central hole

ABSTRACT: In this paper, the tensile strength and fracture behaviors of complex (rovingþweaving) glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP) composite materials containing a central circular hole are experimentally studied. Strain gradient histories of the notched specimen for different hole diameters during the whole damage and fracture process are recorded. Effects of hole diameters on the strength and fracture of the notched specimen are analyzed. The damage initiation and growth of the notched specimen are described. In comparison with the earlier publications about the strength and fracture of laminate or textile composites in this field, the results of this paper will play an important role in the structural optimization and strength design of the notched composite laminate with a complex reinforcement mat. KEY WORDS: glass fiber-reinforced plastic, fracture, strength, mechanical testing, strain gradient