Crack problem in laminated composite plates reinforced by carbon nanotubes (CNTs)

This study investigates the influence of carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforcement on the mechanical properties and crack behavior of laminated composite plates. Using Classical Lamination Plate Theory (CLPT) and the Displacement Correlation Technique (DCT) integrated with Finite Element Analysis, Stress Intensity Factor (SIF) values are calculated for various fiber orientations, CNT volume fractions, and crack lengths. The research also explores how CNT-based factors such as waviness, agglomeration, and orientation of CNTs affect the SIF for various composite structures. Model verification is performed for both isotropic and orthotropic cases, demonstrating that the Displacement Correlation Technique (DCT) can be effectively applied for accurately calculating Stress Intensity Factors (SIF) and analyzing fracture mechanics in composite structures. Parametric studies show that CNT reinforcement has a significant effect on changing SIF of laminated composites. The findings contribute to optimizing composite designs for advanced engineering applications.