Tensile matrix cracking behavior of Hi-Nicalon fiber glass matrix cross-ply laminate composites

This paper examines the damage process of fiber reinforced glass matrix composites under tensile loading. The tensile damage initiation and growth in BN-coated HI-NICALON SiC fiber reinforced glass matrix cross-ply composites were experimentally clarified by replica observations. An improved shear-lag model with two major cracks, which penetrate both 0 and 90 degree plies, were used to predict the stress-strain behavior. This model reasonably well predicted the stress-strain curve until matrix cracks in 0 degree ply saturated.