Damage evolution and infrared thermography in woven composite laminates under fatigue loading

An analytical model based on cumulative damage has been used for predicting the damage evolution in composite materials. The model is verified with experimental data from a carbon/epoxy composite fatigued under tension–tension load. Fatigue tests of specimens have been monitored with an infra-red thermography system. By analysing the temperature of the external surface during the application of cyclic loading, it is possible to evaluate the damage evolution. The model agrees well with the experimental data, and it can be used to predict the evolution of damage in composites.