Gaining mechanistic insight into key factors contributing to crack path transition in particle toughened carbon fibre reinforced polymer composites using 3D X-ray computed tomography

Composite materials are increasingly used to help in reducing the carbon footprint of transportation and upscaling renewable energy infrastructure that provides clean for future cities. However, inherent susceptibility fibre reinforced polymers impact damage results knock-down design is linked micro-mechanistic response material damage. In situ experimental high-resolution imaging techniques using X-ray computed tomography (X-ray CT) have been gain a mechanistic understanding key factors controlling crack path — hence macro-scale toughness within composite. Multiscale Synchrotron Radiation Computed Tomography (SRCT) lab-based micro-focus CT investigate different systems from standard Double Cantilever Beam tests. The transition weaker ply region composite identified as factor across scale mm’s, ‘trigger’ regions reported on investigated. were gaps adjacent interlayer. This work feeds directly into delamination growth predictions, better response, enabling informed manufacture design, allowing reduced usage, longer life more sustainable vehicles infrastructure.