Nikforooz, MGolzar, MShokrieh, Mahmood MehrdadMontesano, J2020-01-082020-01-082018-02https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compositesa.2017.11.010http://hdl.handle.net/10012/15426The final publication is available at Elsevier via https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compositesa.2017.11.010. © 2018. This manuscript version is made available under the CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 license http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/The performance of continuous E-glass/polyamide 6 laminates processed using distinct hot press moulding cycles was assessed and compared with similar E-glass/epoxy and E-glass/polypropylene laminates. The effects of peak processing temperature, preheating time, and temperature dwell time on laminate consolidation and quality were observed using optical and scanning electron microscopy. Corresponding quasi-static tensile tests were performed on [0]8, [90]8, [02/902]s, [04/904]s and [±45]2s laminates. Compared to E-glass/epoxy composites, the [0]8 specimens presented a similar strength, while the [90]8 specimens exhibited a much lower strength due to weaker fiber/matrix adhesion. Conversely, the E-glass/polyamide cross-ply laminates had a markedly higher strength while exhibiting the same modulus. This is because of higher toughness; the polyamide matrix provides as was proved by higher transverse matrix cracking strain of E-glass/polyamide. These findings support the feasibility of producing cost-effective and high-quality E-glass/polyamide laminates for use in high-performance applications, which is an attractive alternative to more conventional glass/epoxy laminates.enAttribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 Internationalpolymer-matrix composites (PMCs)thermoplastic resinmechanical propertiesmechanical testingcompression mouldingArticle