Fatigue characteristics analysis of carbon fiber laminates with multiple initial cracks

Carbon fiber laminates are composite materials renowned for their high specific strength, high modulus ratio, and lightweight properties, making them widely utilized for their exceptional performance. However, these laminates often face cyclic loading conditions, leading to fatigue issues exacerbated by inherent manufacturing defects. This study specifically examines carbon fiber laminates with initial cracks, conducting static and fatigue tests on multiple cracks while varying crack length, inter-crack angle, and distance. Fatigue simulations based on Paris' law are performed for laminates with prefabricated cracks. The research investigates the load-bearing characteristics and intrinsic relationships of cracks within carbon fiber laminates under varying parameters, explores the crack propagation process, and conducts life analysis under fatigue loads.