Stress analysis of the double cantilever beam specimen

A higher-order plate theory which includes transverse shear deformation and a thickness-stretch mode is utilized to analyze a complete double cantilever beam specimen. Homogeneous, orthotropic materials are considered. The beam is divided into a section along the crack and a second section along the uncracked region. Complete continuity of inplane force resultant, transverse shear force resultant, bending moment, and displacements are satisfied across the boundary between the two sections. This analysis allows one to obtain an approximate distribution of the interlaminar normal stress ahead of the crack. The effect of specimen geometry on energy release rate is investigated numerically. Consideration is also given to the average stress criterion as an alternative to a fracture mechanics approach for characterizing interlaminar peel strength.