Two- And Three-Dimensional Failure Criteria for Laminate Composites

Several two- and three-dimensional mixed-mode interface failure criteria are proposed for predicting delamination failure in multidirectional, laminate composites. The proposed criteria, based on the stress intensity factors K1, K2, and KIII, as well as the critical interface energy release rate Gic and phase angles ψ and φ, are examined using results obtained from Brazilian disk mixed-mode fracture toughness tests. Two material systems are considered. The first contains a delamination along an interface between a unidirectional fabric and a plain woven fabric. The second is composed of a plain woven fabric with fibers oriented in different directions in succeeding plies. The former was manufactured by means of a wet-layup and the latter is a prepreg. Finally, a statistical analysis is carried out to obtain a failure curve or surface with a 10% probability of unexpected failure and a 95% confidence. These curves or surfaces may be used to predict failure of structures containing these laminates and to assist in composite design.