Damage tolerance of thick hybrid composite plate containing a local hemispherical damage

Three dimensional (3-D) stress and failure analysis of thick hybrid composite plate containing a local impact damage is presented. The impact damage is modelled in the present study by an artificial hemispherical flaw. The research involves a combination of theoretical study, based on the 3-D finite strip method for fiber reinforced material, and experimental investigation. Numerical results are compared with experimental results, and found to be in good agreement. This follows by a study of the effects of the damage geometry and materials properties on the mechanical behavior of the damaged plate. Theoretical and experimental failure analysis is developed, toward computer aided assessment of the residual strength of damaged plate.