Interlaminar stress analysis of composites: Layer-wise shell finite elements including transverse strains

Theoretical fundamentals for a 2D layer-wise laminate theory including the transverse shear and transverse normal strains are presented which provide a compromise between the continuum theory and the single-layer laminate theories. Four-node isoparametric assumed strain layer-wise shell elements are developed which can be applied to interlaminar stress analysis of composite laminates and simulation of stress singularities due to concentrated loading, freeedge effects, etc. Numerical examples are given to demonstrate the ability and accuracy of the numerical models proposed.