Application of interlaminar tests to marine composites. A literature review

This paper gives an overview of the characterization of the interlaminar properties of composites used for marine structures. Composites to be used in marine applications have particular requirements due to their environment, their large dimensions, mechanical loading and cost constraints. Under certain loading conditions (insert loading, impact) there is a risk of delamination as interlaminar strength of these materials is limited. This paper presents an overview of the tests available to measure delamination resistance. The parameters which influence this property, including the constituents (fibre, matrix, interface), specimen geometry, fabrication route and the resulting defects, and aging are reviewed here.