What is the function of "kerfs" in core materials?

The function of kerfs in core materials primarily revolves around improving the material's ability to conform to curved surfaces. When kerfs, which are narrow slits or grooves, are introduced into a core material, they enable the core to better bend and wrap around substrates or structures. This flexibility enhances the fitting of the core material in geometrical designs that require curvature, such as hulls or decks in marine applications.

Furthermore, kerfs aid in reducing the possibility of delamination by allowing the composite material to maintain better contact across varying surfaces, which is essential for achieving effective bonding and uniform distribution of stress. The design of the kerfs can also be optimized for specific curvatures, ensuring that the core material can achieve the desired shape without compromising its structural integrity.

The other options, while they may have relevance in different contexts, do not capture the primary purpose of kerfs in core materials as accurately as the correct answer.