Cyclic shearing behaviour of a unidirectional glass/epoxy composite

Results from an experimental program consisting of monotonic and fatigue shear tests on a unidirectional glass–epoxy composite are presented in this paper. Unnotched and tabbed specimens were subjected to interlaminar and intralaminar shearing modes using an appropriate testing device called “Cube Test”. Shear mechanical characteristics are determined and cyclic resistance is analyzed. Fatigue results are in good agreement with three-point-bending tests with predominant shearing studied elsewhere on the same material. Modified Basquin relationship is established to characterize the shearing fatigue strength. Microstructural observations of the fracture surfaces by scanning electron microscopy show that hackle formation is the predominant damage mechanism.