Non-linear analysis of free-edge effects in composite laminates subjected to axial loads

Abstract

A finite-element model based on the quasi-three-dimensional elasticity theory of Pipes and Pagano with the non-linear strain-displacement equations is used to study the effect of geometric non-linearity on free-edge stress fields in composite laminates subjected to in-plane loads. The results obtained for transverse normal and shear stresses indicate that the qualitative nature of the stresses remains the same as those obtained in the linear analysis, but the non-linear stresses are larger in magnitude by 5–40%, depending on the laminate. However, in most cases the difference is found to be about 10%.