Abstract

This study analyses on comparing the static delamination behavior and mode I fracture toughness of two types of adhesives (one epoxy and one acrylic) used in a composite material with an epoxy matrix and unidirectional carbon fiber reinforcement. The material was subjected to two different degradation processes (hygrothermal and salt spray chamber), and then mode I fracture was evaluated for both materials. The results suggest that hygrothermal exposure may have a moderate impact on the delamination behavior of the epoxy adhesive, while exposure to the salt spray environment may result in a significant loss of its delamination resistance. For the acrylic adhesive, hygrothermal exposure improved its delamination behavior, while exposure to the salt spray environment had a minor impact on its behavior. Overall, it is concluded that the type of aging has influence on the fracture behavior of both adhesives.