Effective interlaminar shear moduli in composites containing transverse ply cracks

The effective interlaminar shear modulus for View the MathML source and View the MathML source laminates containing transverse cracks through the middle View the MathML source layers are determined analytically. The cracks are assumed to be evenly spaced and to extend across the entire laminate width. The θ ply and View the MathML source ply cluster are treated as a single homogeneous plate, while the ±θ plies are treated as a single laminated plate. The two plates are connected through continuity of displacements and tractions at the interface. In addition to determining the effective shear modulus, a singularity analysis is presented in conjunction with a [0°/90°]S bi-directional laminate. The singularity is then utilized in conjunction with the laminate model to look at the interlaminar shear stress near the crack tip along the 0°/90° interface. Numerical results are compared to both a finite element analysis and to a previously developed self-consistent model.