This course will cover advanced mechanics of composite
structures through macroscale modelling of composite
materials using high-order laminate theories, and through
experimental characterization, and data acquisition and
analysis. In order to carry out conceptual design, initial
sizing and preliminary modelling of composite structural
components, design engineers need a thorough understanding
of the experimental mechanics as well as strength,
stability, and dynamic mechanical response of thin and
thick plates/shells made of composite materials.
In this context, students will be given an overview of
standards and tests methods for experimental
identification of material properties of laminates and
sandwich structures. In addition, the constitutive
equations and strain-stress transformation equations will
be reviewed in the context of modelling composite
structures. Beam, plate, and shell kinematics will be
introduced based on different lamination theories including
layer-wise, zigzag, high-order shear deformation
theories. Principles of virtual work and minimum potential
energy will be presented for bending, buckling, vibration
problems of plate and shell structures.
Analytical/numerical solutions of these problems will be
included. Computational modelling will include post-
processing methods to obtain accurate interlaminar and
transverse-shear stresses and quantify damage mechanisms
such as delamination, impact, and fracture
resistance of composite materials.
|