Modeling matrix cracking evolution in cross-ply laminated composites subjected to in-plane hygrothermal stresses

Damage evolution of cross-ply laminated composites under hygrothermal loads is analyzed in this study by developing the Discrete Damage Model (DDM). Previously, the DDM was considered for the prediction of crack initiation and evolution under thermo-mechanical loads in terms of applied strains in the symmetric laminates with arbitrary stacking sequence. The degradation of laminate moduli is calculated with a Regula-Falsi method for improving the numerical convergence. In contrast to other plasticity inspired formulations for damage activation function, the crack growth is predicted using fracture mechanics in terms of laminae energy release rates and applied strains as a function of crack density. Therefore, no more additional experimental data and parameters are required. In conclusion, a comparison between the results of this study and an empirical formulation has been proposed

کلیدواژه ها:

Cross-ply Laminated Composite ، Transverse Cracking ، Hygrothermal Analysis ، Discrete Damage Mechanics