A theoretical model for predicting fatigue crack growth rates in fibre-reinforced metal laminates

This paper is concerned with the development and application of an analytical model for predicting fatigue crack growth in fibre-reinforced metal laminates (FRMLs). An analytical model for the distribution of bridging traction is first introduced. Based upon observations of the delamination shapes in FRMLs under fatigue loading and a model for characterizing delamination growth in FRMLs, a model for predicting crack growth rates in CCT specimens of FRMLs is developed. The model is applied to two GLARE laminates (2/1, 3/2 lay-ups) under various cyclic stress levels and stress ratios. The predicted crack growth rates are compared with experimental data. The predicted crack growth rates agree well with the experimental results.