Local Delamination in Laminates with Angle Ply Matrix Cracks: Part 2. Delamination Fracture Analysis and Fatigue Characterization

Abstract

Constant amplitude tension-tension fatigue tests were conducted on AS4/3501-6 graphite/epoxy (02/theta2/-theta2)s laminates, where theta was 15, 20, 25, or 30 degrees. Fatigue tests were conducted at a frequency of 5 Hz and an R-ratio of 0.1. Dye penetrant enhanced X-radiography was used to document the onset of matrix cracking in the central -theta degree plies, and the subsequent onset of local delaminations in the theta/-theta interface at the intersection of the matrix cracks and the free edge, as a function of the number of fatigue cycles. Two strain energy release rate solutions for local delamination from matrix cracks were derived: one for a local delamination growing from an angle ply matrix crack with a uniform delamination growing from an angle ply matrix crack with a triangular shaped delamination area that extended only partially into the laminate width from the free edge. Plots of Gmax vs. N were generated to assess the accuracy of these G solutions. ne influence of residual thermal and moisture stresses on G were also quantified. However, a detailed analysis of the G components and a mixed-mode fatigue failure criterion for this material may be needed to predict the fatigue behavior of these laminates.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 1991
Accession Number
ADA253236

Entities

People

  • T. K. O'brien

Organizations

  • Langley Research Center

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Army Aviation
  • Body Weight
  • Composite Materials
  • Cyclic Loads
  • Delamination
  • Epoxy Composites
  • Epoxy Laminates
  • Fatigue Tests (Mechanics)
  • Geometry
  • Graphitic Materials
  • Laminates
  • Materials
  • Materials Testing
  • Moisture
  • Moisture Content
  • Static Tests
  • X Rays

Fields of Study

  • Materials science

Readers

  • Structural Health Monitoring of Composite Structures.