An averaged strain energy density based approach to predict the static notch effect in short fibre composites. Part 1: Theoretical formulation

In this work the Averaged Strain Energy Density (ASED) criterion is reformulated for notched bodies made of orthotropic materials and proposed as an effective approach to predict the static notch effect in short fibre composites. The first part of this study focuses on the theoretical formulation, with the aim to provide a new set of analytical solutions for the ASED evaluated over a well-defined control volume close to U- and blunt V-shaped notches in orthotropic plates under Mode I loading conditions. The analytical solutions presented are derived taking advantage of some recent expressions for the stress distribution near blunt notches in orthotropic solids, as developed by the authors. Key parameters considered include the notch tip radius, notch opening angle and the elastic properties of the orthotropic material. As also discussed in the second part of this contribution, the ASED approach offers insights into the notch sensitivity of short fibre composites, providing a foundation for further investigation into the mechanical behaviour of this class of materials.