Abstract: A load-bearing member is positioned in a slot extending through a composite structure of laminated reinforced plastic having overlapping layers of fabric plies embedded in a thermoplastic material. A connecting means such as a shank of a bolt connects the load-bearing member with a second structure. The load-bearing member has a flat surface engageable with a flat surface of the slot which is generally parallel with the edge surface of the composite structure in abutting relationship with a surface of the second structure. The slot extends through the overlapping layers of fabric plies in such a manner that the load is distributed by the load-bearing member to avoid the concentration of forces which cause shear failure and delamination.

Abstract: A heterogeneous rubber composition having good air impermeability is made by mixing together separate fractions of rubbers and fillers.