Abstract
The tensile and compressive mechanical performance of a range of unidirectional and +/-45 degrees/0 degrees laminates, based on solid and hollow glass fibres, has been compared in terms of absolute and specific values (i.e. property normalised by the laminate density). The damage tolerance of both systems during impact loading has also been established. The use of hollow glass fibres lends to reductions in laminate density of up to 23% compared with solid fibre constructions. Although the absolute values of mechanical properties are lower for the hollow fibre materials (with the exception of compressive failure strain), normalised properties compare more favourably, especially in compression. It is confirmed that materials utilising hollow fibres for reinforcement have considerable potential for applications in which weight saving is important, without significant reduction in mechanical properties relative to solid fibre materials.