A semi-analytical method to predict net-tension failure of mechanically fastened joints in composite laminates

A Finite Fracture Mechanics model is proposed to predict the net-tension strength of composite mechanically fastened joints. A modification of coupled stress–energy criteria is suggested to take properly into account the effect of the R-curve in determining the crack length corresponding to the unstable crack propagation. The proposed model works for quasi-isotropic laminates and it requires as input the longitudinal strength and the fracture toughness of the laminate. The predictions obtained show good agreement when compared with the experimental results.