The effect of microfibrils cellulose modified epoxy on the quasi-static and fatigue behaviour of open hole carbon textile composites

The extensive experimental investigation aimed to assess the effects of hybrid epoxy resin with micro-fibrillated cellulose on tensile quasi-static and fatigue behaviour of open hole carbon plain weave composites. The hybridization of the matrix allowed an improved damage tolerance of the composite leading to increase of the quasi-static tensile strength and extension of the fatigue life. The enhanced mechanical performance of the notched composites was connected to the bridging effect of cellulose microfibrils preventing or delaying the cracks propagation in the matrix and along the fibres interface. The better distribution of the stress state was assessed by digital image correlation strain maps around the hole and the imparted fatigue damage was analysed by scanning electron microscope and X-ray micro-computed tomography visualizations.