A horizontal punch on a layered and orthotropic composite system with negative Poisson's ratio

This paper studies the problem of a layered and orthotropic material with a negative value of Poisson's ratio under a horizontal punch through a rigid line. Full-field solutions near the edge of the rigid line are developed and expressed in terms of the relevant values of the stress intensity factor and energy release rate. The Influences of Poisson's ratio, orthotropicity orientation and the difference between the properties of the layered materials on the stress field and energy absorption are identified. The results show that materials with a negative value of Poisson's ratio have a great potential to reduce the stress concentration and to increase punch resistance. If the punch load is maintained constant, the punch edge stress will increase with the layer thickness. However, if the punch displacement is maintained, the punch edge stress will decrease with layer thickness.