1 . Analysis of the Orthotropic Lamina
1.1. Introduction
1.2. Hooke’s Law
1.3. Relationships between elastic constants and Matrix of Elasticity
1.4. Matrix of elasticity
 
2. Classical theory of Laminates
2.1. Introduction
2.2. Basic Formulas
2.3. Laminate stiffener matrix
2.4. Calculation of Stress and deformation
2.5. Thermal Stress
2.6. Calculation of Elastic Constants

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Classical theory of Laminates

The use of simple plates with unidirectional reinforcement is unsatisfactory in most engineering applications due to a very low strength and stiffness in the direction cross . The resistance and the transverse stiffness of a unidirectional lamina, in fact , closely dominated by the strength and stiffness of the matrix , are generally insufficient to ensure , even in the presence of limited ( negligible ) transverse loads , the absence of phenomena of damage , the shape stability and the its integrity.

This drawback is overcome by resorting to composite laminates consisting of N plates with unidirectional reinforcement, oriented in certain direction as to meet the various needs in strength and stiffness.

For the proper design of a composite laminate is necessary to know the relationships, for given type of foils and packaging sequence , between the mechanical characteristics of each lamina and the laminate obtained. By some simplifying assumptions , such Relationships are identified by the so-called Classical theory of laminates.