ON THE MATRIX CRACKING MODE IN ADJACENT PLIES OF COMPOSITE LAMINATES

摘要

Damage mode of matrix cracking in plies adjacent to the cracked ply in composite laminates is highlighted in this study. Static tension tests of [0/θ/90]s and [0/θ{sub}2/90]s laminates with θ=30°, 45°, and 60° are conducted in order to investigate matrix cracking behaviors in multiple plies. Matrix cracks developed along the fiber direction are the dominant damages observed in [0/30{sub}2/90]s laminate, whereas a high density form of matrix microcracking is mainly observed in θ° plies of the other laminates. The laminate configuration, e.g. ply angle and ply thickness, turns out to have significant effect on the damage mode in the adjacent plies. Simplified analysis for the mechanical behavior of laminates containing developed matrix cracks in multiple plies is presented. Finally, finite element analysis for the classification of the damage modes in adjacent plies is provided in order to evaluate the experimental observation.