Towards a physics-based relationship for crack growth under different loading modes

In an attempt to understand quasi-static delamination growth under mixed mode loading conditions from a physics-based perspective, this work first evaluated cracking in isotropic materials. The critical Strain Energy Density (SED) approach is adopted, because physically the onset of crack growth is expected to occur when the energy available...

Understanding mixed-mode cyclic fatigue delamination growth in unidirectional composites: An experimental approach

Due to the lack of fundamental knowledge of the physics behind delamination growth, certification authorities currently require that composite structures in aircraft are designed such that any delamination will not grow. This usually leads to an overdesign of the structure, hampering weight reductions. In real structures, delaminations tend...