Author(s)

R. Massabo & B.N. Cox

Abstract

The influence of through-thickness reinforcement on Mode II delamination fracture in composite laminates is investigated. The bridging traction law, which characterizes the toughening mechanisms due to the through-thickness reinforcement, is deduced from crack profile measurements in End Notched Flexure specimens. The problem is solved through an inverse formulation of a bridged-crack model based on bending theory for anisotropic plates. 1 Introduction Through-thickness reinforcement, applied by stitching or weaving continuous fiber tows or inserting short rods, is the most promising method of solving the problem of delamination in composite laminates. The through-thickness reinforcements bridge the delaminations and shield their tips from the applied load so reducing the crack driving force. Cra

Keywords