Characterising pre-preg and non-crimp-fabric composite single lap bonded joints

Pre-preg and non-crimp-fabric composite single lap bonded joints were manufactured and investigated to characterise the bond quality and static failure behaviour. A two-part epoxy adhesive was employed to bond composite laminates. The composite panels, which were treated with low pressure oxygen plasma, were bonded in a hot drape former and then cut to manufacture single lap bonded joints. The joints were examined using X-ray microtomography to evaluate the bond quality achieved in the hot drape former. Quasi-static tensile tests were conducted on the pre-preg and non-crimp-fabric composite single lap bonded joints. The fracture surfaces were examined using optical and scanning electron microscopy. The static failure behaviour and failure patterns observed in the two joint types were compared and discussed.