Prediction of the microyield strength of polymer matrix composites

A theory for the prediction of the creep and the microyield strength of composite laminates with viscoelastic matrices has been developed and tested. Precise creep curves from three laminates with arbitrary orientations provide the necessary input data. The time-dependent lamina properties are derived for subsequent use with standard laminate codes. Both the level and the shape of creep and strain recovery curves can be predicted. Extensions of the theory to include the effects of microcracking are outlined.