Fracture of Composite Materials

This lecture covers the fracture mechanics of composite materials, focusing on the specific characteristics and test requirements of fiber-reinforced plastics. It discusses the importance of fiber aspect ratio, fiber volume fraction, and fiber-matrix adhesion in determining the mechanical properties of composites. The lecture also explores different failure modes in brittle and ductile matrices, delamination failure, and the effect of constrained plasticity on fracture energy. Examples of catastrophic composite failures and fracture testing methods are presented, highlighting the challenges and significance of intralaminar fracture testing.