Abstract:

In this study, mode I critical strain energy release rate (GIc) of unidirectional E-glass/epoxy was determined by double cantilever beam (DCB) test. Calculated GIc was used to initiate delamination in numerical models. The effect of stacking sequence and fiber orientation of the sublaminates and the effect of thickness on mode I delamination crack length and GIc distribution along the specimen width in 0o//0o interface have been studied using ANSYS®. 3-D 8-node linear interface element INTER 205 is used to create a predefined crack path. To investigate the fiber orientation effect, composites with [+θ2, 902, -θ2, 02]s stacking sequences were modeled. Interlaminar fracture analyses were performed by Virtual Crack Closure Technique (VCCT). Experimental and numerical critical loads (Pcr) showed a good agreement. According to the results, while fiber orientation affects significantly the extended crack length and the GIc distribution along the specimen width, stacking sequence only affects the GIc distribution.

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