Plane‐strain fracture toughness of epoxies at different loading rates

Abstract
The plane‐strain fracture toughness of two common epoxy systems of different ductility were determined at different loading rates, according to ASTM E 399 for metallic materials. The ASTM standard was applicable, but underestimated slightly the specimen thickness required for KIc. KIc decreased with an increasing loading rate and with an increasing yield stress. The fracture surfaces were all very smooth as long as plane‐strain conditions prevailed.

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