PROBABILISTIC ANALYSIS OF MULTISTEP FAILURE PROCESS OF A T-LAMINATED COMPOSITE IN BENDING

This paper presents results of a theoretical and experimental analysis of the random bending strength of laminated composites. Multi-layered composites with a periodic structure of sublaminates are considered i n a combined loading (bending action and plane stress) state. The rand om strength response of the composites is analyzed on the basis of a m ulti-step failure probabilistic model. Here, the multi-step failure is considered as a process in which the failure of some single structura l elements (sublaminates, laminae) leads to load redistribution onto o ther intact elements. A numerical algorithm based on the Monte Carlo t echnique and respective computer code are offered The effect of scatte r of structure parameters and number of sublaminates on the bending st rength distribution ir analyzed in detail. Experimental confirmation i s considered on an example of uniaxial bending of laminated carbon-fib er-reinforced plastics. A method for evaluation of reliability in a ra ndom combined loading is also suggested.