Investigating the matrix-cracking rate dependence in cross-ply laminates

This proposal seeks to elucidate how damage in novel thermoplastic composite materials develops at the ply scale, and how damage accumulation depends on the loading velocity with particular focus on high-rate loading. Answering these research questions is only possible with ESRF ID19’s unique capability of in-situ monitored high-velocity loading experiments whilst performing sub-surface phase-contrast X-Ray imaging in the MHz range. The scarcity of experimental evidence on that topic is currently a limiting factor in the development of physically-based models for these materials. It has also traditionally led to oversized structures in the transport industry, especially for accident situations (e.g., collision and/or impact). Consequently, this investigation results should enable a better understanding of the physics of damage in that material, allow the development of advanced behaviour law and lead to most accurate design possible for future structural parts.