Probabilistic strength analysis of rectangular FRP plates using Monte Carlo simulation

Probabilistic strength analysis of simply supported rectangular anti-symmetric cross-ply and angle-ply fibre reinforced plastic laminated plates is performed by applying the Monte Carlo simulation method. Various limit state equations are derived from non-linear laminate theory with different anisotropic plate failure criteria. Transverse lateral pressure load, elastic moduli, geometric and ultimate strength values of the laminates are considered as basic design variables and assumed to follow both normal and two-parameter Weibull probability distributions. Reliability of the laminates is estimated and the sensitivities of basic design variables to the estimated reliability is viewed by varying their mean values systematically.