Abstract

An experimental investigation was conducted on using small flaws purposefully introduced into composite laminates to control growth of interlaminar cracks and through-thickness crack branching. Mode I crack growth specimens were used to study branching through 0°, 90° and 45° plies. The results showed that crack growth through 0° plies could be promoted by a ply gap, but this was not as controllable as combining a ply gap with a pre-crack to create a “crack branch flaw”. Crack branching through 45° plies could be controlled using crack branch flaws, and also promoted controllably using ply gaps. Crack branching through 90° plies was seen without any flaws, but was better controlled with embedded delaminations. Using these outcomes, crack branching through two quasi-isotropic laminates was demonstrated. The results have application to improved damage tolerance and fracture toughness, by taking advantage of high toughness crack growth mechanisms.

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