A new finite element approach applied to the free edge effect on composite materials

A general theory of elasticity-based finite element formulation applied to the free edge effect is described in this paper. The F.E. error estimation is also addressed. Optimum mesh criteria based on the even distribution of global and specific error are shown. This technique has been applied to a [±25°/90°]s T300/934 laminate. Four different numerical models have been compared in terms of through-thickness tensile and shear interlaminar stresses, with varying degrees of complexity and yielding various degrees of error. As a result of this study, a reliable numerical model with a low level of error has been obtained. Finally, a theory–experiment correlation study has been carried out over a (+45°, −45°, 0°)s laminate loaded in tension. Both, strain-to-failure and failure mode were successfully correlated.