Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Background/Objective: The objective of this review paper is to know and verify the mechanical properties especially impact behavior of PMC under subzero temperature. Methods/Statistical Analysis: The focus of this paper is on the use of liquid nitrogen as cryogenic liquid, subzero temperature conditions and the mechanical durability of PMC including tensile strength, compressive strength, shear strength, fatigue. The low velocity impact of PMC is reviewed under the Charpy impact and the Drop weight impact. Also the progressive failure and damage of PMC under impact is given due importance in this paper. Applications/Improvements: Hybridization of PMC with synthetic, natural fibers and micro fillers can enhance the mechanical properties of PMC at liquid nitrogen temperature. Findings: The tensile load response for a composite is very much dependent on the strength properties of the reinforcement fibers, since they are high compared to the resin system on its own. The compression testing of the composites is very challenging due to various reasons. The application of compressive load on the cross section is done in three ways: directly apply the compressive load on the ends of a specimen, loading the edges in shear and mixed shear and direct loading. The compression test results show that the mechanical properties at subzero temperature is comparatively better than properties of the PMC at room temperature. The impact testing of PMC in subzero temperature has better impact strength than PMC tested at room temperature. The reason being the brittleness of the matrix once exposed to liquid nitrogen the layers get contracted on cooling and load transfer does not take place as in the case of composite at room temperature resulting in failure. 
Keywords: Cryogenics, Damage, Impact, Polymer Matrix Composite (PMC), Liquid Nitrogen, Subzero