Strength Failure Criteria in Composites

This course covers the intricate details of strength failure criteria in fiber-reinforced polymer composite structures. It begins with an exploration of the macromechanics of lamina, including the stress-strain relationship, the influence of direction-dependent stiffness, and the distinction between isotropic and orthotropic materials. For instance, the course explains how the fiber angle in a laminate can impact its properties. The course then delves into the strength failure theories under macromechanics, discussing the concept of strength of a lamina and the different types of failure theories. It also covers the hygrothermal behavior of lamina, explaining how environmental changes like temperature and moisture can affect the mechanical behavior of composites. For example, it discusses how a change in temperature during fabrication can alter the composite's dimensions, and how moisture absorption can affect its stiffness.