Structural and Failure Mechanics of Sandwich Composites

This book focuses on important deformation and failure modes of sandwich structures such as face sheet/core debonding, core cracking, failure under impact loading, wrinkling and local buckling as well as global buckling strength and fatigue strength. The text provides also the mechanics background necessary for understanding these fracture processes and the response of sandwich beams and plates under a variety of loadings. Furthermore, the book reviews test methods developed for the characterization of the constituent face and core materials, the bond layer, and structural elements of the sandwich. Finally, the book includes new three-dimensional elasticity solutions for the structural behaviour, which can serve as benchmarks for judging the accuracy of simplified sandwich plate, shell and beam theories. The book will benefit structural and materials engineers and researchers seeking to achieve a deeper understanding of the structural behaviour, structural integrity, and failure mechanisms of sandwich structures.