6 - Modeling residual stresses in composite materials

Abstract

The analytical models on the evaluation of the ply scale or macroresidual stresses in polymeric composite materials are reviewed. It is shown that the models’ ability to describe the behavior of the polymer matrix during the cure is crucial for the accuracy of the analysis. Due to the complex thermo-chemo-rheological viscoelastic behavior of the resin, the common approximations to achieve an accurate constitutive model are studied. A modified classical lamination theory model with a consideration of resin chemical shrinkage contribution is introduced.