Composites Course:

February 3 – 7, 2025

Virtual: 8AM – 5PM PST (UTC -8)

Click here to register now!

Course Description:

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the mechanics of composite materials, focusing on aerospace applications. Participants will learn advanced analysis techniques for modeling composite aerospace structures, including analytical stress analysis methods to calculate deflections, strains, stresses, and buckling. Key failure criteria will also be explored.

To enhance context and practical relevance, the course includes an overview of mainstream composite manufacturing methods and the curing chemistry of fibers and matrices. This balanced approach integrates theoretical rigor with practical insights, preparing participants for the challenges of modern aerospace structural design.

Course Textbook:

Mark E. Tuttle, Structural Analysis of Polymeric Composite Materials, Second Edition.

Supporting Resources:

  • K. Y. Lin, Composite Materials: Materials, Manufacturing, Analysis, Design and Repair (2nd Edition), Createspace, April 5, 2015. ISBN: 978-1511585347.
  • L. P. Kollar and G. S. Springer, Mechanics of Composite Structures, Cambridge University Press, 2003.

Course Outline:

  1. Introduction to Composite Materials
    • History and background of composite materials in aerospace applications.
  2. Fiber and Matrix Properties & Manufacturing Processes
    • Properties of fibers and matrices.
    • Overview of main manufacturing techniques.
  3. Stress Analysis of Laminates
    • Classical Lamination Theory (CLT) for large flat laminates.
  4. Composite Beam Analysis
    • Stress and deflection calculations.
  5. Stress Concentrations in Composites
    • Methods for analyzing localized stress effects.
  6. Thin Composite Plates
    • Stress analysis and buckling behavior.
  7. Composite Sandwich Plate Analysis
    • Stress analysis, transverse shear effects, and buckling.
  8. Transverse Shear Effects in Composites
    • Analysis and implications for structural design.
  9. Analysis of Joints
    • Bonded and bolted joint design and performance.
  10. Damage Tolerance and Fracture Mechanics
    • Principles of failure and durability in composite structures.