Considerations of failure mechanisms in polymer matrix composites in the design of aerospace structures

Abstract

Abstract: When designing with composites, it is important to consider their potential failure modes, especially delamination, when performing trade studies for different structural configurations and manufacturing approaches. Additionally, temperature extremes, moisture, and a variety of fluids that are common to aircraft fabrication and maintenance and prevention of damage from these are necessary in materials selection, design, and qualification. Other design considerations are the effects of fire, lightning, and electromagnetic radiation. Because of the wide variety of design drivers, it is imperative to ensure that there is a clear understanding of failure modes to enable designers to take advantage of composite materials’ anisotropy without creating unwanted stress concentrations and/or failure modes that could compromise structural integrity. This chapter provides a review of the various failure mechanisms in composites that must be taken into account in order to design and build durable and safe aircraft composite structures.