Analysis of Inelasticity Effect Due to Damage on Stress Distributions in Composite Laminates

A damage mechanics model characterizing damage behavior of composite materials proposed earlier by the authors is employed to analyze the damage effects on stress field near the free edge in symmetrically laminated graphite/epoxy composites of finite dimensions under umaxial tension. A quasi-three-dimensional finite element analy sis is developed for the present investigation. The results from the damaged and undam aged stress distributions of [0/90°]s, [90/0°]s, and [±45°] s laminates are compared and examined. The processes of initiation and development of damage zone in these composite laminates are also discussed.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/68869/2/10.1177_073168449301200805.pd