Structure–properties relations in titanium‐based thermoplastic fiber–metal laminates

Abstract This paper investigates the interfacial, tensile, and fatigue properties of a titanium alloy fiber–metal laminate (Ti‐FML) based on woven glass‐fiber‐reinforced polyetherimide (GF/PEI). Initial tests, using the single cantilever beam (SCB) geometry have shown that it is not necessary to surface treat the titanium alloy in order to achieve a high value of metal–composite interfacial fracture toughness. Tensile tests have shown that the mechanical properties of the FML lie between those offered by its constituent materials. Tension–tension fatigue tests have shown that the fatigue lives of these laminates are superior to those offered by the plain titanium alloy. The mechanical properties of this glass fiber/PEI FML have also been compared with those offered by an FML based on a unidirectional carbon‐fiber‐reinforced polyetheretherketone (CF/PEEK) composite. Here, it has been shown that although the fatigue properties of this woven GF/PEI composite are inferior to those of the CF/PEEK FML, they do offer a higher temperature capability due to the higher glass transition temperature of the PEI matrix. Polym. Compos. 27:264–270, 2006. © 2006 Society of Plastics Engineers.