Optimization of Stress Intensity Factor for Natural Rubber Toughened Glass Fiber

Nikhil S, D G Harris Samuel

Abstract: In this project natural rubber is used as a matrix material and glass fiber as reinforcement material that are fabricated using hand layup process. Then comparing the stress intensity factor of composites made of glass fiber with natural rubber and glass fiber with epoxy. The objective of the project is to determine the fracture parameter k by Crack Tip Opening Displacement Method (CTOD). To study the effect of dispersing elastomer into the polymer on k, the thermography and radiography testings have done.

Keywords: natural rubber, glass fiber, epoxy, stress intensity factor