Abstract: The applicability of fracture mechanics to conventional isotropic materials has been well demonstrated. For fiber-reinforced materials, however, fracture mechanics investigations have met with mixed ...

Abstract: The stretched-membrane concept has the potential for reducing the cost of heliostats used for solar thermal energy generation in central receiver systems. In this concept, a high strength/structural ...

Abstract: The delamination fracture toughness of graphite and aramid-epoxy composite laminates was determined as a function of loading rate for unidirectional and woven reinforcements. In addition, the ...

Abstract: Delamination is the major concern during drilling of composite laminates. Delamination, in addition to reducing the structural integrity of the laminate, also results in poor assembly tolerance ...

Abstract: Drilling tests were conducted on aramid and carbon fiber-reinforced composite laminates using an instrumented machining center. Machining parameters for the damage-free drilling of these materials ...

Abstract: Previous studies have shown the severe limitations that have to be placed on machining forces when drilling composite laminates due to their propensity for delamination. Delamination, which ...

Abstract: Low tensile strength restricts use of natural stone in applications where tensile or flexural capacity is required, such as for long spans or thin sections (e.g., cladding, countertops, desktops). In addition, exposure to ...

Abstract: The axisymmetric functionally gradient materials (FGMs) subject to nonuniform temperature variations were studied with the combined use of homogenization and inhomogeneous eigenstrained media analysis. ...

Abstract: Significant stresses are induced in brazed metal-to-ceramic joints during cool-down. Analysis of such stresses is complicated by nonlinear material behavior and uncertainties in material properties ...