This M.Sc. thesis examines the suitability of Mode I fracture toughness test standards, developed based on experience with thermoset composites, for their use for thermoset composite materials. Experience has shown that thermoplastic materials are significantly tougher, and the application of current mode I fracture toughness standards can result in significant scatter in the test results. Through a sensitivity study, this thesis explores whether this scatter is an inherent property, or a result of specific test parameters.
