The unsymmetrical compression shear test for the determination of the interlaminar shear strength of ceramic matrix composites under different loading conditions

A new testing procedure was developed for the determination of the interlaminar shear strength of laminated composite materials. It is based on the axial compressive loading of a bar-shaped specimen which is notched unsymmetriccally and perpendicularly to its laminae. This test avoids the deficiencies of the customary procedures used today which arise from complex superpositions of stress fields. It is easy to perform and can favourably be applied also at high temperatures as well as under various loading conditions, as e.g. cycling fatigue. Furthermore, it can be modified for investigations of the shear failure under defined superimposed compressive stresses.