Experiments and two-dimensional finite-element analysis are carried out for unidirectional and angle-ply curved laminates. These laminates are used for deep sea applications and offer considerable advantage over their metal counterparts. Much work has recently been devoted to the failure mechanisms of thick composites. Delamination growth of thick composite laminates and shells is also pertinent to the structural performance and certification of underwater composite shells. In this study, specimens are produced and tested for failure. A linear and geometric non-linear two-dimensional finite element analysis of the end-notched flexure specimen is performed to evaluate the compliance and Mode-II strain energy release rate G(II).
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