Three-Dimensional Finite Element Analysis of Damage and Fracture in Woven Glass-Epoxy Laminates at Cryogenic Temperatures

Abstract

We discuss the cryogenic damage and fracture behaviors of G-11 woven glass-epoxy laminates.In conjunction with the cryogenic fracture toughness test, a three-dimensional finite element analysis was conducted to predict the fracture and deformation for models of the compact tension specimens. Effective elastic moduli were determined under the assumption of uniform strain inside the representative volume element. Hoffman's criterion was selected as the criterion for composite failure, and matrix microcracking was detected by the maximum strain criterion. The virtual crack extension method was adopted to calculate strain energy release rate which leads to determination of stress intensity factor. In order to verify the model, correlations between experimental and analytical results were made, in terms of the load-displacement response and the extent of damage growth. Good agreements were found between the calculations and the experimental data.