Stress analysis and ultimate strength prediction of composite material

Composite materials consisting of stiff and strong fibers (glass, carbon, Kevlar, boron, silicon carbide etc) reinforcing compatible matrices ( polymers, metals, ceramics, carbon etc) in laminate configurations are engineered materials widely used in aerospace, automobile and other engineering applications. Stress analysis and strength prediction of laminated composite structures is complex due to highly nonlinear behavior resulting from progressive ply failure (first ply failure to last ply failure). This work will show how nonlinear progressive ply failure analysis can go beyond first ply failure and perform further damage propagation.