On the relation between the mode I fracture toughness of a composite laminate and that of a 0° ply: Analytical model and experimental validation

This paper proposes a simple model to predict the fracture toughness of multidirectional carbon–epoxy composite laminates using the fracture toughness of the 0° ply. The model is based on a combination of Linear-Elastic Fracture Mechanics and lamination theory, and uses as material properties the ply elastic properties and the fracture toughness of the 0° ply measured in compact tension test specimens. A good correlation is obtained by comparing the model predictions and experimental data obtained in center-cracked specimens manufactured using different lay-ups and materials.