Fatigue damage analysis of GFRP composites using digital image correlation

Abstract Glass fibre reinforced polymer composites are frequently used in marine applications where the combined effects of cyclic loads and seawater environment limit their fatigue life. This paper aims to demonstrate degradation that causes stiffness composites. Three-point bending properties cross-ply woven glass commonly manufacture tidal turbine blades reported for both wet dry conditions. Failure analysis based on Digital Image Correlation method was performed identify damaged zones test coupon surface follow failure progression during tests. To characterize damage composite, has been monitored entire history. Scanning electron microscopy multiple mechanisms specimen fracture surface. In addition, further verification results, X-Ray Micro-computed tomography, internal such as delamination. From full-field strain measurement technique microscopic examination failed samples, it found distributed localized strains evidence number resin cracks de-bonded areas. SEM shows a degraded fibre/matrix interface region due action seawater.