Analytical Modelling of Transverse Matrix Cracking of {±θ/90ⁿ}^s Composite Laminates under Multiaxial Loading

Abstract

An analytical model based on the analysis of a cracked unit cell of a composite laminate subjected to multiaxial loads is proposed to predict the onset and accumulation of transverse matrix cracks in the 90_n plies of uniformly stressed {±θ/90ⁿ} ^s laminates. The model predicts the effect of matrix cracks on the stiffness of the laminate, as well as the ultimate failure of the laminate, and it accounts for the effect of the ply thickness on the ply strength. Several examples describing the predictions of laminate response, from damage onset up to final failure under both uniaxial and multiaxial loads, are presented.

Keywords:

• Composite materials
• fracture
• transverse cracking
• failure criteria
• multiaxial loading
• damage

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors would like to thank Professor Janis Varna, Luleå University of Technology, Sweden, for his useful insight.

The financial support of the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) under the project PDCT/EME_PME/64984/2006 is acknowledged by the second author.

The present work has been partially funded by the Spanish Government the under research project TRA2006-15718-C02-01.