Abstract
The paper describes initial work on using 2D digital image correlation (DIC) and thermoelastic stress analysis (TSA) to obtain data from edge cracks in cross-ply laminates. It is demonstrated that detailed data related to the crack tip stresses can be obtained using TSA. The work reveals some of the limitations experienced when using DIC in applications where high spatial resolution is required. A detailed discussion is provided along with an outline for future work.
Highlights
The increasing use of composites in many crucial engineering applications has placed greater demand on techniques to assess stress concentrations
Some of the limitations and advantages of digital image correlation (DIC) and thermoelastic stress analysis (TSA) have been demonstrated in this paper with several useful properties being confirmed for cross-ply laminates
The decreasing load carrying capacity of a 90° surface layer has been shown through the formation of transverse cracks and inversely the increased stress and a more dramatic stress concentration effect at the notch with a 0° surface layer
Summary
The increasing use of composites in many crucial engineering applications has placed greater demand on techniques to assess stress concentrations. In comparison, laminated polymer composite materials display many forms of damage which interact with each another during initiation and propagation. The mechanisms are dependent on the constituent material and laminate stacking sequence. Matrix cracking is prominent in 90° layers when loaded in tension and occurs well below the failure load of the laminate [2]. Such cracking has a relatively small affect on the stiffness of a structure but does initiate other types of damage such as fibre breakage and delamination. It is necessary to apply experimental techniques to provide enhanced understanding of the failure mechanisms
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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 call
