Analysis of composite laminates with a generalized zigzag theory
- Michigan State Univ., East Lansing, MI (United States). Dept. of Materials Science and Mechanics
This study presents a generalized expression for laminate theories, namely a generalized zigzag theory. It unifies shear deformation theories, layerwise theories, and zigzag theories. To begin with, two layer-dependent variables are assumed for each in-plane displacement components. The layer-dependent variables can be converted into layer-independent variables through the enforcement of continuity conditions for both interlaminar displacements and interlaminar shear stresses. The total number of degrees-of-freedom of the theory then becomes layer-number independent and the computational efficiency is thus guaranteed. Since the properties of individual layers are considered in the analysis, the generalized zigzag theory gives excellent in-plane displacements and stresses in the cases examined by Pagano. Satisfactory transverse shear stresses can also be obtained directly from the constitutive equations. Although the interlaminar normal stresses are not forced to be continuous on the laminate interfaces, the discrepancy seems to be very insignificant.
- OSTI ID:
- 89872
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-9409291--; ISBN 1-56676-220-0
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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