Abstract
Even though standardized fracture mechanics tests for continuous fiber-reinforced polymer-matrix composites do not require sophisticated tools, the development of these methods has profited from the application of advanced technology. A crucial measurement in fracture mechanics testing is the determination of the delamination length (crack length). A number of advanced non-destructive test methods will be compared with respect to their sensitivity, precision and compatibility with the standardized fracture mechanics test set-up. Recently, there has been renewed interest in the analysis of the "damage" or "bridging" zone that is produced in delamination growth in fiber-reinforced composites. Test methods that yield information on these zones will, usually, also be applicable for damage detection in composite structures.
