Nonlinear analysis of edge effects in angle-ply laminates

An initial stress iteration method using a quasi-three-dimensional finite element has been developed for the nonlinear analysis of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) laminates subjected to a uniform inplane load. Linear and nonlinear analyses of the free edge problem were carried out for the [0/90]_s, and [ ± 45]_s laminates with and without resin layers included between plies of laminae. The nonlinear results show that the peak shear stress in the [0/90]_s laminate and all the stress components in the [±45], laminates are reduced. A maximum strain failure criterion was used and failure modes were predicted. © 1987.