Numerous test methods have been proposed and are being used to understand the mechanical properties of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics (CFRP). In order to quantitatively compare and evaluate the performance of materials, some test methods have been established as test standards by the relevant organizations. Furthermore, the established test standards are aiming to become international standards. This review article briefly introduces the test methods and standards applied to the evaluation of the mechanical properties of CFRP, interweaving with introducing the CFRP test methods that Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has been working to standardize in the representative international standard, International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
This paper presents research performd at JAXA on the lightning-induced damage to CFRP. The effect of lightning current on aircraft CFRP structures is complex, involving multiple physical phenomena that couple in a very short period of time, and the detailed damage mechanism is not fully understood. Both experimental and numerical approaches have been used to clarify the damage mechanisms of CFRP caused by direct lightning strikes and edge-glow phenomena. Additionally, this paper discusses the contributions of research findings to international standardization activities, for improving aircraft safety and accelerating development.