Internal Force
Perpendicular loading across the thickness of a laminated fabric or composite structure creates a sliding tendency between the layers. In the design of technical textiles for ballistic protection or structural reinforcement, transverse shear stress determines the point at which the bond between the plies will fail. This force acts in a direction parallel to the cross section and is a major factor in the delamination of coated materials.
Layer Interaction
Cohesion between the resin and the fiber interface must be strong enough to resist the sliding motion. When transverse shear stress is applied, the individual threads may shift or tilt and cause a permanent deformation of the weave pattern. High density coatings improve the resistance to this force by anchoring the yarns in a rigid matrix that prevents lateral movement.
Failure Mode
Cracking and separation of the layers signify that the mechanical limits of the adhesive or the weave have been exceeded. Because transverse shear stress often peaks at the neutral axis of a bent material, the core of a sandwich structure is the most likely location for a structural break. Engineers use three point bending tests to measure the resistance of the composite to these internal forces.
Load Calculation
Mathematical models for calculating the shear modulus rely on the thickness of the fabric and the magnitude of the applied weight. If the transverse shear stress exceeds the design parameters, the material will lose its stiffness and its ability to carry a load. Regular inspection of the edges of the laminate can reveal the early signs of fatigue before a total collapse occurs.
The use of specialized resins and high tenacity yarns helps to distribute the stress over a larger area and increase the lifespan of the product.