Effect of temperature and MWCNTs on low velocity impact response of CFRP laminates

This experimental work addresses the effect of temperature and MWCNTs on the response of carbon fibre reinforced epoxy matrix (CFRP) laminates under low impact velocity. The test temperature ranged from +80 °C down to -40 °C while two sample configurations were examined, namely cross-ply and quasi-isotropic. Results showed the influence of temperature and of stacking sequence on the impact response of CFRP. The presence of carbon nanotubes, despite a larger delaminated area, provided the quasi-isotropic structure with an increased damage tolerance, ascribed to the enhancement of mode II interlaminar fracture toughness.