A review of mode I dominant interfacial fracture toughness test methods of skin-core bonding for thermoplastic composite sandwich structures

Increased lightweight design via composite sandwich structures is a promising approach due to their exceptionally high weight-specific mechanical properties. The involved cost when using has hindered applications in cost-sensitive markets up now. However, full thermoplastic enable reduction novel processing routes based on fusion bonding of core and facesheet. In order optimize such ensure proper facesheet after manufacture, valid test methods for the quantification skin-core interfacial are required. This paper reviews existing determination Mode I dominant fracture toughness structures. main focus set cantilever beam tests as well peel tests. Based definition requirements suitable methods, applicability evaluated. Mandrel Peel Test results most method structures, especially with thin facesheets.