The purpose of this paper is to determine the validity of using classical laminated plate theory to predict strain concentration factors in notched laminates under bending.
The objective was accomplished by comparing results predicted by classical theory to those from more refined theories that incorporate transverse shear and other 3D effects in the analysis. Three notch sizes and two laminate types were considered. The results were obtained through finite element analysis.
Strain concentration factors predicted by the classical theory were generally found to be significantly lower than those predicted by the more refined theories. However, these differences tended to be very localized to the vicinity of the notch tip.
This study points out a potential deficiency in a commonly used design tool. The seriousness of this deficiency can best be determined by further research, particularly through a systematic testing program.
