Abstract
Layered fiber-reinforced composite structures are susceptible to crack initiation and growth in the resin-rich layer between plies. Delamination represents one of the most prevalent life-limiting failure modes in laminated composite structures. Interlaminar fracture mechanics represents one approach to assess the damage tolerance of composite structures. This paper is organized into two major sections. The first sections introduces interlaminar fracture mechanics and test methods that have been developed to characterize the Mode I, II and III interlaminar fracture toughness of composite laminates. In the second section, the role of interlaminar fracture mechanics in assessing damage tolerance of composite structures is defined through the following case studies: residual compression after impact strength, instability related delamination growth in compressively loaded laminates and delamination growth in composite laminates with discontinuous internal plies.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Journal of Offshore Mechanics and Arctic Engineering
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
