Progressive matrix cracking in off-axis plies of a general symmetric laminate

A generalized shear-lag model has been derived to determine the average through-the-thickness stress state present in a layer undergoing transverse matrix cracking. The model is capable of considering cracking in layers of arbitrary orientation, states of general in-plane applied loading, and laminates having a general symmetric stacking sequence. The model has been shown to agree with a conventional model for the case of a simple cross-ply laminate. Agreement was also found for the slightly more general general three layer system. Current efforts are underway to include the full model capabilities into the existing computer code to allow for more general problem solving.