Evolution of transverse matrix cracking in cross-ply laminates

The objective of this paper is to develop a micromechanics model for the onset and subsequent multiplication of transverse cracks in the 90 degrees layers of a cross-ply laminate under uniaxial tension. The micromechanics study of transverse matrix cracking is performed by a combination of finite element and analytical analyses. Based on the Griffith fracture criterion, the evolution of transverse matrix crack density is predicted. The prediction compares well with existing experimental data in the Literature. Analytical expressions of the non-linear effective stress-strain curves are also obtained far a wide range of material systems. In addition, an analytical expression of the effective stiffness is derived based on the differential self-consistent method. The analytical results agree very well with the finite element calculations.