Probabilistic Static Failure of Composite Material.

Abstract

A theory has been developed that combines the statistics of composite material failure with the orthotropic nature of composite materials. The theory can be used to predict the probability of failure for a unidirectional composite, including the effects of loading history and the probabilistic location of failure. The theory includes the general anisotropic response in addition to differences in failure that may exist in tension or compression loading. Applications of the theory illustrate the results that can be obtained and indicate that future experimental results should include a record of the failure location. The theory correlates well with the limited experimental data available. Also, the theory in its present form could be readily added to current structural analysis programs. The implementation of this theory will allow more accurate assessments of the reliability of composite material structural components.