Interlaminar stress analysis of general composite laminates

In this study, based on the reduced from of elasticity displacement field for a long laminate, an analytical method is established to exactly obtain the interlaminar stresses near the free edges of generally laminated composite plates under the extension and bending. The constant parameters, which describe the global deformation of a laminate, are properly computed by means of the improved first-order shear deformation theory. Reddy's layerwise theory is subsequently utilized for analytical and numerical examinations of the boundary layer stresses within arbitrary laminated composite plates. A variety of numerical results are obtained for the interlaminar normal and shear stresses along the interfaces and through the thickness of laminates near the free edges. Finally the effects of end conditions of laminates on the boundary-layer stress are examined.

► Analytical solutions are developed to analyze the interlaminar stresses. ► Interlaminar stresses demonstrate high stress gradient near the free edge. ► Reddy's layerwise theory is used for examinations of the boundary layer stresses. ► Effects of end conditions on the boundary-layer stress are examined.