Mechanical Properties of GLARE Fiber Metal Laminates

Fiber metal laminates (FML) consist of alternating metallic and fiber reinforced polymer composite layers. FMLs are an extension of metal bonding technology that has been used in the aerospace industry for decades. The hybrid material has significantly improved damage tolerance and impact characteristics compared to metallic or composite materials. The most advanced form of FMLs, currently in production, consist of 2024 aluminum layers with S2 glass/epoxy composite layers and are referred to as "GLAss-REinforced" aluminum or GLARE. Most of the work done with FMLs has occurred in Europe. Recently, the USAF has sponsored programs to develop the analysis methods required to apply these materials to military aircraft. The “Advanced Hybrid Structures, Core Technology Development” (AHSCTD) contracts are developing analysis methods to predict the mechanical property behavior of these materials and validating those models with mechanical property testing. This presentation will cover the interim results of model development and testing performed by Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.