Effects of Specimen Geometry on the Strength of Composite Materials Available to Purchase

This paper demonstrates the statistical relationships which exist between test specimens of different designs and how these relationships can be utilized in strength predictions. The specimens selected were the straight-sided tension coupon, uniaxial sandwich beam, and the acceptance-type flexure coupons. Experimental data were obtained for the [0]_c, [90]_c, [0₂/±45]_c, [±45/90₂]_c, and [0/±45/90]_c laminates fabricated from Narmco 5505 boron-epoxy at various temperatures ranging from -65 to 420 F.