A Modified TSD Specimen for Fracture Toughness Characterization - Fracture Mechanics Analysis and Design

Abstract

The tilted sandwich debond (TSD) specimen has been recognized as a viable candidate for characterization of the face/core fracture resistance. Analysis, however, shows that the range of phase angles that can be realized by altering the tilt angle and other parameters of the test is quite limited. A method to extend the range of mode-mixities of the TSD specimen is to introduce a larger amount of transverse shear by reinforcing the loaded upper face with a stiff metal plate. Analysis shows that this method extends the range of phase angles to a practically useful range. Guidelines on selection of thicknesses of the reinforcement, and design considerations for further modifications are provided.