Environmental Effects on Unsymmetric Composite Laminates

Abstract

In order to take full advantage of the tailorability of composite materials, the response of unsymmetric composite laminates is studied in an integrated analytical/ex perimental program. The laminates tested include a symmetric and an unsymmetric layup, [0 2/452] s and [04/454] I , constructed of the IM7/977-2 graphite epoxy material system pro duced by Fiberite. The test conditions simulated mclude both ambient and hot/wet condi tions in addition to tension and torsion. A quasi three-dimensional finite element program is used to evaluate the stress-strain response of these laminates. These responses are com pared with experimental observations.