A finite element analysis of angle-ply laminate end-notched flexure specimens

This paper deals with two and three-dimensional finite-element analysis of unidirectional and angle-ply laminate end-notched flexure specimens. Such laminates are for instance commonly used for deep sea applications and offer considerable advantage over their metal counterparts. Much work has recently been devoted to the failure mechanisms of composites. The area of delamination growth of composite laminates and shells is also a key issue for the structural performance and certification of underwate composite shells. In this study a geometric non-linear, two and three-dimensional finite element analysis of the end-notched flexure specimen, is performed to evaluate compliance and Mode-II strain energy release rate GII. Comparisons are made with experimental results and beam and plate theory solutions.