Investigation on Flexural Behavior of Prepreg Platelet and Continuous‐Fiber Hybrid Composite Laminates

Abstract

Discontinuous fiber laminates offer superior forming performance compare to continuous fiber laminates, thus having been extensively researched and applied. In the ribbed structural panels, discontinuous fibers and continuous fibers can be fabricated into hybrid laminates, which can meet the requirements of forming performance while improving the comprehensive mechanical properties. This work studies the flexural properties of the prepreg platelet and continuous‐fiber hybrid composite laminates. The load‐deflection curves, failure modes, and flexural properties were analyzed and compared. The results indicate that the flexural strength and modulus of the hybrid composite laminates decrease as the proportion of prepreg platelet decreases, with the strength showing a more pronounced dependence than the modulus. The loading direction of the specimen has an impact on the flexural strength, while almost no effect on the flexural modulus. The stress distribution of specimens with different thickness ratios of continuous fibers and prepreg platelet was discussed, and the damage process of the hybrid composite laminates was investigated.