Abstract
Tensile tests are performed using notched CFRP laminates with different layer thickness, interlaminar property and molding method to evaluate the notched strength and damage behavior. Compared with standard ply thickness laminates, thin ply laminates have a large reduction in normalized notched strength. Thus, thin ply laminates are significantly affected by the stress concentration. Laminates which have high interlaminar fracture toughness are nearly independent of the notch size Compared with laminates made by autoclave molding, the notched strength of laminates made by VaRTM method has a large variation between individuals. For the VaRTM composites, stress distribution near the notch edge is changed due to the positional relationship between notch edge and resin pocket which is caused by stiches used in non-crimp fabric. Consequently, notched strength of VaRTM composites are affected significantly by the resin pocket.
