Experimental Study on Quasi-Static Indentation Behavior of Curved Carbon/Aramid/S-Glass Hybrid Layered Composites
Abstract
This study investigates the quasi-static indentation behavior of curved composite laminates reinforced with carbon, Kevlar, and S-glass fibers in various interlayer hybrid configurations. Plain-woven carbon and Kevlar fabrics, together with 8H satin S2-glass fibers were used to fabricate monolithic and hybrid curved composite specimens through hand lay-up method. Quasi-static indentation tests were conducted in accordance with ASTM D6264 using a hemispherical steel indenter at a crosshead speed of 1.25 mm/min. The results revealed that the monolithic Kevlar laminate exhibited the highest indentation resistance, achieving a maximum load 1.98 times greater than the monolithic carbon laminate. Hybridization significantly influenced load-bearing behavior: S-glass–carbon combinations reduced peak forces, whereas carbon–Kevlar hybrids enhanced resistance and energy absorption. Triple-layer GKC hybrids demonstrated a 1.27-fold improvement over carbon laminates, while double-layer hybrids with top-layer Kevlar and carbon showed 1.43- and 1.66-fold increases, respectively. Damage morphology analysis showed that Kevlar layers delayed crack propagation, enlarged the deformation zone, and reduced localized brittle fractures compared to carbon and glass fibers. Overall, the results indicate that hybridizing carbon fiber–reinforced curved composites with Kevlar fabrics effectively enhances indentation resistance, energy absorption, and damage tolerance.
Keywords
Carbon fiber, curvature, composite, quasi-static indentation, hybrid laminate
Ethical Statement
References
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