THERMAL EFFECTS ON THE STRAIN ENERGY RELEASE RATE FOR EDGE DELAMINATION IN CRACKED LAMINATED COMPOSITES

In this paper, edge delaminations in cracked composite plates are analytically investigated. A theoretical model based upon a sub-laminate approach is used to determine the strain energy release rate, $G^{ed}$, in [$\pm$$\theta_m$/$90_n$]$_s$ carbon/epoxy laminates loaded in tension. The analysis provides closed-form expressions for the reduced stiffness due to edge delamination and matrix cracking and the total energy release rate. The parameters controlling the laminate behaviour are identified. It is shown that the available energy for edge delamination is increased notably due to transverse ply cracking. Also thermal stresses increase substantially the strain energy release rate and this effect is magnified by the presence of matrix cracking. Prediction for the edge delamination onset strain is presented and compared with experimental data. The analysis could be applied to ceramic matrix composite laminates where similar mechanisms develop, but further experimental evidence is required.