Abstract
The tensile properties of a commercially available, random continuousfiber thermoplastic composite material are investigated at various strain rates and elevated temperatures. The material utilizes polypropylene (PP) for the matrix material, with random continuous E-glass fiber reinforcement. Tensile modulus, tensile strength, strain to peak stress, and strain energy are experimentally determined at strain rates varying from 0.000167 sec-1 to 0.0334 sec-5 and temperatures varying from 20 to 120'C. The material properties are found to have large scatter caused by local variations in fiber content and orientation. The tensile properties are independent of the strain rate but depend on the temperature. A model for the material response based on a simple power law equation is presented.