Experimental Exploration of Crack and Damage Dynamics in Hybrid FRP Nano Composites

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Year : 2026 | Volume : 14 | 02 | Page :
    By

    Shaik Abdul Kalam,

  • K Dileep Kumar,

  1. Ph.D. Scholar, Mechanical Engineering, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India
  2. Associate Professor, Mechanical Engineering, University College of Engineering Kakinada, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have become essential materials in modern engineering structures because of their excellent strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and adaptability in design. Among different fracture modes, Mode I interlaminar fracture where cracks propagate under tensile opening stresses—is one of the most critical forms of damage in layered composites. Since delamination occurs within the matrix-rich regions between plies, improving the matrix properties plays a key role in enhancing overall fracture resistance. For this reason, researchers have explored the use of nanoscale reinforcements to strengthen the polymer matrix and limit crack growth. In the present study investigated the effect of incorporating multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) into Hybrid (Carbon/E-Glass) fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites to assess changes in fracture toughness. The nanotubes were added to the epoxy resin and hardener system at two different weight fractions: 0.5% and 1%.A total of nine specimens were manufactured to evaluate Mode I interlaminar fracture toughness using the double cantilever beam (DCB) test method. The experimental data were processed and interpreted through the Modified Beam Theory (MBT) approach. The results demonstrated noticeable differences in both the maximum load capacity and the average fracture toughness values when 0.5% and 1% MWCNT were introduced. These observations provide deeper insight into the role of MWCNT reinforcement in enhancing or altering the fracture performance of hybrid FRP composites. The findings contribute valuable knowledge toward the development of advanced composite materials with superior resistance to crack propagation and structural failure.

Keywords: Fracture Mode 1 interlaminar Fracture toughness test, Vacuum Bagging Process, Hybrid (Carbon/E-Glass) Fiber reinforced polymers Composites,Multi-walled carbon nanotubes Data reduction method.

How to cite this article:
Shaik Abdul Kalam, K Dileep Kumar. Experimental Exploration of Crack and Damage Dynamics in Hybrid FRP Nano Composites. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(02):-.
How to cite this URL:
Shaik Abdul Kalam, K Dileep Kumar. Experimental Exploration of Crack and Damage Dynamics in Hybrid FRP Nano Composites. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(02):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2026/view=240322


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Ahead of Print Subscription Original Research
Volume 14
02
Received 10/03/2026
Accepted 16/03/2026
Published 18/04/2026
Publication Time 39 Days
2

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