Utilizing factorial modeling to probe multifaceted mechanical properties of polymer composites

Design tasks involving multiple complex requirements and constraints reveal the need for extensive materials research in the aerospace industry. This situation emphasizes the necessity for innovatively developing materials that conform to structural design specifications. However, reasons given for the advancement of materials neither abolish material testing requirements nor supersede simplified design approaches. Moreover, in structural design processes, particularly with composite materials, there is a critical need for meticulous examination of elastic and strength properties. Therefore, this study evaluates the tensile, flexural, and interlaminar shear properties of various composite materials, tested according to relevant ASTM standards, using a two-factor analysis method. The analysis of elastic properties in glass fiber and carbon fiber reinforced laminates considers elastic modulus, tangent modulus, and Poisson's ratio, while strength properties are evaluated based on interlaminar shear strength, three-point bending strength, and tensile strength. This comprehensive approach ensures a detailed analysis of all possible combinations of factor levels. Factorial modeling is proposed as a useful method while performing analysis on the mechanical properties rather than roughly providing averaged values for the tested materials.