A semi-analytical method to predict net-tension failure of mechanically fastened joints in composite laminates

A Finite Fracture Mechanics model is proposed to predict the net-tension strength of composite mechanically fastened joints. A modification of coupled stress-energy criteria is suggested to take properly into account the effect of the R-curve in determining the crack length corresponding to the unstable crack propagation. The proposed model works for quasi-isotropic laminates and it requires as input the longitudinal strength and the fracture toughness of the laminate. The predictions obtained show good agreement when compared with the experimental results. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.