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Modeling, Synthesising and Testing Nacre-inspired CFRP Structures for Improved Damage Tolerance
Abstract
In this work, a bio-inspired carbon/epoxy composite with nacre-like tiled microstructure is designed and synthesised. Analytical models were developed to predict the strength and energy dissipation of such composite, and the predictions for the stress-strain response during tile pull-out were validated against FE. Suitable configurations for tile geometry with interlocks were then identified and used for the subsequent manufacturing, based on their anticipated energy dissipation capability. The dimensions of the tiles considered were of the order of 0.7 mm. In-situ three-point bending tests were then carried out in an SEM environment, showing the capability of the interlocking microstructure in deflecting the crack.