Experimental evaluation of the tensor polynomial failure criterion for the design of composite structures

The experimental measures and techniques are described which are used to obtain the strength tensor components, including cubic terms. Based on a considerable number of biaxial pressure tests together with specimens subjected to a constant torque and internal pressure, a modified form of the plane stress tensor polynomial failure equation was obtained that was capable of predicting ultimate strength results well. Preliminary data were obtained to determine the effect of varying post cure times and ambient temperatures (-80 F to 250 F) on the change in two tensor strength terms, F sub 2 and F sub 22. Other laminate configurations yield corresponding variations for the remaining strength parameters.