Reliability analysis of GFRP pultruded composite rods

The mechanical properties of FRP composites have a remarkable scatter, even when the specimens are prepared and tested under identical conditions. Proposes a new computerized method for estimating accurately the parameters (X₀, α, β) of Weibull distribution function. Calculates the safe design of fatigue life data of glass fibre (ER 1150 F‐183) reinforced polyester (Q 8520 A) pultruded composite rods using the time to first failure (TTFF) concept. The shape parameter of a two‐parameter Weibull distribution function is the major limiting factor for the reliability analysis by this method. Shows that the penalty paid to gain a certain reliability and confidence level for static strength and fatigue life was decreased by increasing fibre volume fractions of GFRP composite rods. Indicates that the area under the curves of master diagrams were decreased by increasing the value of reliability (probability of survivability) of GFRP composite rods.