Strain Energy Release Rate Analyse of Matrix Micro Cracking in Composite Cross-Ply Laminates

Jean-Luc Rebière, Denys Gamby

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DOI: 10.4236/msa.2011.26072                

Abstract

The stress field distribution in composite cross ply laminates damaged by matrix cracking is analysed through an approach which uses several hypotheses to simplify the damage state. The proposed cracking criterion involves the partial components of the strain energy release rate associated with transverse and longitudinal cracking. The respective contributions of the 0° and 90° layers to the damage process are also investigated. The initiation of transverse and longitudinal cracking mechanisms is predicted. We also give an assessment of the influence of each individual component of the stress tensor on the strain energy release rate of the damaged laminate.

Keywords

Composite Laminates, Matrix Cracking, Damage Mechanics, Failure Criterion

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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