Transverse biaxial tests on long fibre reinforced composites

The study and prediction of the failure mechanisms affecting long fibre reinforced composites is a fundamental field that provides an essential knowledge for structural design with composites. Transverse failure, generated at ply level by mechanism damage known as inter-fibre/matrix usually determines initiation in any laminate which justifies its relevant role need to understand micromechanical stages. Previous numerical results established case transverse biaxial loads (T-nT T-nC cases) stages detected uniaxial could be affected. most outstanding conclusion anyhow was effect secondary tension did not significantly alter ultimate value nominally responsible whereas compression advance appearance. In order experimentally check validity these conclusions performance tests undertaken this paper. present investigation begins presentation cruciform geometry selected specimen followed description specific manufacturing procedure employed. testing campaign carried out agree previous provide information initiation.