Failure Analysis of Composite Laminates with Free Edge

Abstract

A failure theory which combines classical lamination theory with free-edge interlaminar stress was employed to predict the strength of laminates with free edges. Laminates studied were [±θ]2s angle-ply laminates, [±θ/90]s laminates, and fiber-dominated π/4 laminates. The present theory was capable of predicting failure loads for [±θ]2s and [±θ/90]s laminates as well as delamination on-set loads for π/4 laminates.