ABSTRACT
A synergistic damage mechanics (SDM) approach that combines micromechanics and continuum damage mechanics (CDM) was previously reported [1]. This paper reports further development in that approach. It is first shown that the stiffness changes in general laminates are caused by shear effects in laminae in addition to intralaminar cracks. The inadequacy or impracticality of treating such combined effects with micromechanics is discussed. The use of SDM for such cases is then demonstrated.
