Title: Impact and Flexural Performance of E-glass/Epoxy Composites Fabricated via VARTM
Authors: A.elldaim A.Ali, Yousif.A A, Ahmed Mubark, Mohamad H. H. Deifalla
Volume: 9
Issue: 10
Pages: 66-76
Publication Date: 2025/10/28
Abstract:
The development of lightweight and high-strength fiber-reinforced polymer composites has gained significant attention in structural engineering applications, including aerospace, marine, and automotive sectors. This study focuses on the fabrication and mechanical characterization of unidirectional E-glass/epoxy composites produced by Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM). Impact and flexural behaviors were experimentally investigated using standardized ASTM methods. Drop-weight impact tests were carried out at energies of 10, 20, and 30 J, while three-point bending tests evaluated flexural strength and modulus. The findings showed that increasing impact energy enhanced absorbed energy but also promoted matrix cracking and delamination. The flexural performance exhibited high stiffness and consistency across specimens, confirming the reliability of VARTM for E-glass/epoxy systems.