Experimental Investigation of the Effects of Fiber Direction and GNP Reinforcement on the Structural Behavior of CARALL FML Composites
Abstract
The design of lighter structures to reduce fuel costs and ensure environmental sustainability has become one of the primary goals for aircraft manufacturers and researchers in the aerospace industry. In this context, fiber metal laminate (FML) structures, which are distinguished by their superior fatigue resistance and mechanical properties, have gained significant attention in aerospace applications. Among the newest and most advanced types of FMLs, carbon fiber reinforced aluminum laminates (CARALL) have emerged as a focal point of research. In this study, CARALL FML composites—representing a novel member of the FML family—were fabricated with a 3/2 stacking sequence and two different fiber directions (0°–0° and 0°–90°), both with and without 0.5 wt.% Graphene Nanoplatelet (GNP) reinforcement using the hot press molding method. The fabricated specimens were subjected to tensile tests according to ASTM D3039 and three-point bending tests according to ASTM D790 standards. The results revealed that fiber direction is the most influential parameter affecting mechanical performance, while the addition of 0.5 wt.% GNP led to a reduction in both tensile and flexural strength.
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