Abstract
Strain energy release rate associated with matrix cracking in the θ- layer of unbalanced symmetric [0/θ], composite laminate is predicted analytically using a 2-D shear lag stress analysis and the Equivalent Constraint Model (ECM). Its dependence on the crack density and ply orientation angle is examined for glass/epoxy and carbon/epoxy laminates. Suitability of a mixed mode fracture criterion to predict the cracking onset strain is discussed.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
REFERENCES
Crocker, L.E., Ogin S.L., Smith, P.A. and Hill, P.S. (1997) Intra-laminar fracture in angle-ply laminates. Composites Part A 28(9–10), 839–846
Jones, R.M. (1999) Mechanic of composite Materials, 2nd edition. Francis & Taylor, Philadelphia PA.
Kashtalyan, M. and Soutis, C. (2000) Modelling stiffness degradation due to matrix cracking in angleply composite laminates. Plastics, Rubber and Composites 29(9), 482–488
Lapusta, Y.N. and Henaff-Gardin, C. (2000) An analytical model for periodic α°layer cracking in composite laminates. International Journal of Fracture 102(4), L73-L76
McCartney, L.N. (1996) Stress transfer mechanics for angle-ply laminates. In: Proceedings of the 7th European Conference on Composite Materials, 14–16 May 1996, London UK. Wodhead Publishing Ltd., Abingdon Hall.
Rikards, R., Buchholz, F.G., Wang H., Bledzki, A.K., Korjakin, A. and Richard, H.A. (1998) Investigation of mixed mode interlaminar fracture toughness of laminated composites by using a CTS tyoe specimen. Engineering Fracture Mechanics 61(3–4), 325–342
Tong, J., Guild, F.J., Ogin, S.L. and Smith, P.A. (1997a) On matrix crack growth in quasi-isotrophic laminates. – I. Experimental Investigation. Composites Science and Technology 57(11), 1527–1535
Tong, J., Guild, F.J., Ogin, S.L.and Smith, P.A. (1997b) On matrix crack growth in quasi-isotropic laminates. – II. Finite element analysis. Composites Science and Technology 57(11), 1537–1545
Varna. J., Joffe, R., Akshntala, N.V. and Talreja, R. (1999) Damage in composite laminates with off-axis plies. Composites Science and Technology 59(14), 2139–2147
Zhang, J., Fan, J. and Soutis, C. (1992) Analysis of multiple matrix cracking in [±θm/90n]s composite laminates. Part 1: In-plane stiffness properties. Composites 23(9), 291–298
Zhang, J., Fan, J. and Soutis, C. (1992) Analysis of multiple matrix cracking in [±θm/90n]s composite laminates. Part 2: Development of transverse ply cracking. Composites 23(9), 299–304
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Kashtalyan, M., Soutis, C. Strain Energy Release Rate for Off-Axis Ply Cracking in Laminated Composites. International Journal of Fracture 112, 3–8 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1022610402864
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1022610402864