Shear Strength in Composite Materials

Shear strength is an important mechanical property for composite design engineers in many applications. In composites with layers (laminates), a unique shear condition called inter-laminar shear exists between the layers of reinforcement.  As a designer, it is essential to understand how to avoid conditions where shear stress can create failures in a composite.

This report will cover the differences between standard shear and interlaminar shear and four primary factors that can be optimized for improved shear strength: matrix, fiber orientation, fiber content, and flaws.  The report also explains the different types of standard shear strength test methods and includes examples of some custom shear strength test methods.