Mechanical analysis of multilayer composite materials with duroplastic matrix after exposure to low temperatures

Abstract

Cryogenic engineering is gaining more and more interest in various industry sectors, which leads to an intensive search for effective solutions. The article presents the findings of mechanical testing conducted on glass-epoxy laminates at room temperature and after long-term contact with liquid nitrogen.To compare the impact properties and flexural strength, the samples were tested under cryogenic and room conditions, and then the fracture locations were identified using the Leica DVM6 microscope. The study brings value to the emerging field of cryogenic engineering by providing valuable information on the mechanical properties of glass-epoxy composites under cryogenic conditions.It has been found out that immersing the glass-epoxy composites into the Dewar had minimal influence on impact and flexural strength properties. The most noticeable changes were observed in the case of the EP_4_2 composite. The material consists of a solution of brominated epoxy resin in an organic solvent. It is used to produce laminates in electrical engineering and printed circuits in electronics, where it should exhibit excellent impact properties.One of the prospective research directions is a thorough analysis of the mechanical properties of the developed composite materials during cryogenic cycles.The study aims to determine the effect of different compositions of glass fabric-reinforced resin with a weight of 205 g/m2 on the mechanical properties of the developed composite materials at both room temperature and after long-term exposure to liquid nitrogen. Those investigations serve as surveillance for developing of new material solutions directed towards cryogenic applications and are essential for subsequent stages of research.