ABSTRACT
One of the primary objectives of composite mechanics is to develop appropriate tools for analysis of composite structures. Basic knowledge of solid mechanics is essential for understanding the topics on analysis of composite lamina and laminate. This chapter reviews the basic solid mechanics concepts. It discusses the governing equations that are required for the development of analytical tools. The chapter addresses the various concepts under kinematics, kinetics, and constitutive modeling. Generalized Hooke's law is reduced to various specialized cases such as orthotropic and isotropic materials. Plane elasticity idealizations are made use of in composite lamina and laminate analysis. Solid mechanics is based on two approaches: physical approach and phenomenological approach. In the physical approach, adopted in solid state physics, the structure of a body is studied at the atomic and molecular levels. Solid mechanics concepts are fundamental requirements in the fields of composites mechanics and analysis.
