Composite materials are increasingly used in aerospace, underwater, and
automotive structures. To take advantage of the full potential of
composite materials, structural analysts and designers must have
accurate mathematical models and design methods at their disposal.
The objective of this monograph is to present the laminated plate
theories and their finite element models to study the deformation,
strength and failure of composite structures. Emphasis is placed on
engineering aspects, such as the analytical descriptions, effective
analysis tools, modeling of physical features, and evaluation of
approaches used to formulate and predict the response of composite
structures.
The first chapter presents an overview of the text. Chapter 2 is devoted
to the introduction of the definitions and terminology used in composite
materials and structures. Anisotropic constitutive relations and
Iaminate plate theories are also reviewed. Finite element models of
laminated composite plates are presented in Chapter 3. Numerical
evaluation of element coefficient matrices, post-computation of strains
and stresses, and sample examples of laminated plates in bending and
vibration are discussed. Chapter 4 introduces damage and failure
criteria in composite laminates. Finally, Chapter 5 is dedicated to case
studies involving various aspects and types of composite structures.
Joints, cutouts, woven composites, environmental effects, postbuckling
response and failure of composite laminates are discussed by considering
specific examples.
