Selection of an Appropriate Laminate Theory
In the above two sections, the key features of both equivalent single layer and layerwise theories have been outlined. Based on that, an appropriate laminate theory can be chosen for a particular problem. Without going into more details, the laminate aspect ratio (the ratio between in-plane size and thickness) gives an important hint about the theory that would be more suitable for a particular laminate.
In Figure 3-5, it can be seen that ESL theory is more suitable for moderately thick to very thin laminates, whereas layerwise theory is more suitable for moderately thin to very thick laminates. The selection of ESL theory for very thick laminates may give rise to incorrect transverse shear stresses whereas the selection of layerwise theory for very thin laminates may give rise to shear locking.
Figure 3-5: Selection of an appropriate laminate theory based on the laminate aspect ratio.