Residual strength of notched composite laminates: theoretical models and experimental results

Several fracture models used for prediction of notched residual strength of composite laminates are reviewed. Emphasis has been placed on analytical fracture models which are simple to utilise. Published experimental results on the notched strength of composite laminates containing a circular hole or center crack and subjected to quasi-static axial tensile loading are also reviewed. Characteristic parameters associated with fracture models have been determined and theoretical predictions of residual strength are compared with all notched strength data sets. Applicability of the different fracture models in predicting the residual strength of composite laminates is also discussed. (Example materials include carbon fiber/epoxy matrix and glass fiber/polyester matrix composite laminates.)