Abstract

This work focuses on analyzing the uniaxial response of carbon fiber reinforced polymer matrix laminates with the configurations [±45]_2S under tension and [±45]_4S under compression. These present non-linear stress-strain evolutions that allow them to withstand large deformations before losing their load-carrying capacity. Both responses are characterized by a first linear stage, followed by a plateau in which the strain grows without increasing the stress level, and finally by a re-stiffening phase. But there are quantitative differences that lead to different failure patterns, which are explained with the help of the state of stress in the plane of maximum shear stress. For a better understanding of the process, tensile load-unload-reload tests are performed to verify if the energy recovered in each cycle could be related to the loss of the apparent stiffness. During the first two stages of the mechanical response, the laminate suffers a progressive damage with a reduction in stiffness related to the dissipated energy, but this pattern is not repeated in the last stage of strain hardening. Based on the experience of other authors, it is assumed that the re-stiffening stage follows a different pattern due to possible microstructural changes in the matrix during the plateau. These are promoted by a narrowing process under tensile loads and a local widening of the test zone under compression. The dimensional changes perpendicular to the load direction are observed thanks to the strain fields obtained by Digital Image Correlation.