Study of the influence of the number of inter-ply interfaces on the bearing rupture of riveted composite assemblies

Within the framework of composite structures crashworthiness, bearing rupture specific to composite riveted joints shows an interesting potential insofar this benign failure mode exhibits relevant energy absorption capacities. Therefore, one could anticipate using such properties as a contributing mechanism to address safety in transportation vehicles where composite materials are increasingly introduced. As a contribution to this scientific and economical challenge, the presented paper aims at analysing mechanisms involved in the bearing fracture of composite assemblies. An experimental ASTM procedure is therefore first adapted to the studied material, in terms of specimen dimensions. This new protocol is then applied to conduct a comprehensive static experimental study focused on the analysis of the influence of the number of inter-ply interfaces on bearing properties. The results confirm the strong influence of this parameter on the initiation of bearing failure in composite laminates.