ABSTRACT
Knowledge of the failure modes and mechanisms in composite materials and structures will provide information enabling the most appropriate stress analysis method to be used in determining defect and damage criticality. The possible failure modes can range from simple loss of structural stiffness due to instantaneous first-ply failure, through to reduction in load-carrying capacity due to localized deformation and damage growth, or complete loss of loadcarrying capacity because of the presence of the defect or damage. This chapter first reviews the various failure modes and mechanisms associated with composite materials and structures, then details both the simple and complex failure modes of composite materials, and finally discusses the mechanisms of fracture and failure in the composite material that leads to ultimate loss of performance.
