Abstract

In this paper, the effect of thermal cycles on the flexural properties of 4/3 configured Glass Reinforced Aluminum (GLARE) has been evaluated with Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). GLARE is manufactured by Turkish Airlines Technic Inc. composite workshop with autoclave method. After manufacturing process, GLARE samples are subjected to thermal cycles (0, 25, 50, 100, 200 and 300 cycles) in a full function climatic chamber at temperature ranges -30 °C to +40 °C for 120min. Threepoint bending tests are applied to thermally aged GLARE samples by using Zwick Z-250 universal test machine. The variation on the flexural modulus and strength values of GLARE samples is determined. From test results, the decrements of the flexural strength and modulus of GLARE samples are occurred for 300 thermal cycles as 4.95% and 4.85%, respectively. From CBCT observations, it is determined that delamination and metallic layer fractures are the main damage mechanisms.

Keywords: Ageing; Composites; Damage zone; Mechanical properties; Nondestructive technique

Abbreviations: CBCT: Cone Beam Computed Tomography; FMLs: Fiber Metal Laminates; NDT: Non- Destructive Testing; SRM: Structure Repair Manuel; GLARE: Glass Reinforced