Probabilistic strength analysis of rectangular FRP plates using Monte Carlo simulation

Probabilistic strength analysis of simply supported rectangular anti-symmet ric cross-ply and angle-ply fibre reinforced plastic laminated plates is pe rformed by applying the Monte Carlo simulation method. Various limit state equations are derived from non-linear laminate theory with different anisot ropic plate failure criteria. Transverse lateral pressure load, elastic mod uli, geometric and ultimate strength values of the laminates are considered as basic design variables and assumed to follow both normal and two-parame ter Weibull probability distributions. Reliability of the laminates is esti mated and the sensitivities of basic design variables to the estimated reli ability is viewed by varying their mean values systematically. (C) 2000 Els evier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.