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

Abstract

The stress field distribution in composite cross ply laminates damaged by matrix cracking is analyzed through an ap-proach 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 con-tributions of the 0ånd 90ayers to the damage process are also investigated. The initiation of transverse and longitu-dinal 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.