Numerical analysis of the Edge Crack Torsion test for mode III interlaminar fracture of composite laminates

摘要

A detailed numerical analysis of the Edge Crack Torsion test was performed to verify its adequacy for the mode III interlaminar fracture characterization of composite laminates. A new data reduction scheme based on specimen compliance was proposed. Three-dimensional finite element analyses including a cohesive damage model were performed in order to evaluate the accuracy of perceived G_(IIIc) values obtained with the proposed method. Despite some degree of crack length dependency of perceived G_(IIIc), acceptable errors could be achieved within a certain crack length range, which is thus recommended for experimental tests.