Buckling analysis of cracked laminated plates by domain decomposition method

Buckling of cracked laminated plates has been analysed by generalised differential quadrature (GDQ) method combined with domain decomposition technique. Crack was modelled as a discontinuity which divides the plate into some segments. Governing equations, boundary and continuity conditions were applied on each segment and the problem was converted to algebraic system of equations. Critical buckling load was determined by eigenvalue analysis. Effects of layers arrangements, crack lengths, plate aspect ratios and degree of orthotropy of each layer on the buckling are presented. The accuracy of the presented method is demonstrated using several numerical samples. Also, results illustrate that present approach by using a small number of nodes can consider the material discontinuity and achieve high accuracy. The buckling load of a cracked plate is smaller than the perfect one, especially when the load is normal to the crack edge. Strength ratio can alter the buckling mode of a cracked laminate.