Mechanical characterisation of a glass/polyester sandwich structure for marine applications

Composite materials have recently found application in various field, particularly for high performance equipment. Some examples might be found in the sport and sea transportation field (i.e. yacht hulls, windsurf boards). The aim of the present work is to deepen the knowledge of mechanical properties of sandwich structures used for marine applications, suggesting at the same time some solutions to increase their performances. In particular, a new lamination sequence – used to realise the cover exhaust of luxury yachts – has been investigated. The behaviour of the sandwiches was studied under static conditions, by performing the following tests: three point flexural, torsion, edgewise compression and flatwise compression test. The tests execution has allowed both to analyse the mechanical performances and to understand several fracture mechanisms that take place in these structures.