Bearing strength performance of mixed thin/thick-ply, quasi-isotropic composite laminates

The effect of using thin plies to increase the bearing strength composite laminates has been investigated. A series 5 theoretically identical stiffness with varying proportions were manufactured a single material system. Four specimens from each plate tested for and damage was subsequently characterized an optical microscope. results show that performance in terms stiffness, at onset damage, ultimate stress proportionally increasing amount within stack. Shifting 100% conventional ply laminate thin-ply gave 47% damage. Placement stack also shown be important initial Microscopic examination failure modes all samples showed fiber kinking, localized center hole, dominant mode regardless stacking sequence.