Finite Element Based Degradation Model for Composites with Transverse Matrix Cracks

摘要

A degradation model for predicting the effective homogenized three-dimensional elastic constants of an interior ply with transverse matrix cracks was developed by analyzing a three-play represnetative volume element using the finite element method. The degradation model was first evaluated by comparing the homogenized extensional modulus for a cracked (0/(90)_3)_s laminate with experimental results and finite element discrete models in which each crack was modeled discretely. Further, using the pdegradation model the predictin of load redistribution for a cantilevered laminated plate with matrix cracks subjected to transverse end load was compared with a discrete crack model. Also, the prediction of load redidstribution in a cracked plain weave composite subjected to uniaxial stress was compared with a discrete crack model. The dgradation model showed good agreement in predicting the homogenized elastic constants and load redistributions.