Investigation and monitoring of delamination in FMLs under mode I and II loading with FEM and AE

In this study the delamination behavior of FMLs loaded under mode I and II conditions is investigated by using numerical modeling and acoustic emission (AE) data analysis. Test samples is made of prepreg (glass/epoxy composite) and aluminum 2024-T3 (chromic acid anodized). Detection of delamination initiation moment is required for calculation of interlaminar fracture toughness in mode I and II which this moment is detected by using AE technic. Initiation and propagation of delamination is modeled by Abaqus software by using cohesive element. Load-displacement curve, progressive debonding and delamination face are the results taken from FEM and are compared with test results. Signal frequency processing is done for identifying delamination propagation and classification of fracture mechanism. Delamination mechanism is validated by Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images.