EXPERT REVIEWS
This text provides exactly what the title states and should be on the reference shelf of every stress analyst working on aircraft composite structures. No other text covers the full range of topics from laminate theory, through laminate and sandwich panel strength and stability checks, bolted and bonded joint analysis, durability and damage tolerance, and aircraft composite structure requirements and substantiation. The emphasis is on real-world practical application of composite analysis theories, with links to industry test data and experience.
Stephen Ward
UTC Technical Fellow
Chair of Composite Material Handbook-17 and ASTM D30 working groups
This new book is an excellent practical reference. The section on “General Disadvantages of Composite Materials” is particularly unique and useful, as are comments on analysis accuracy vs. risk of failure. The discussion of various failure criteria is superior to that found in other references, in this reviewer’s opinion. The bonded joint chapters and discussion of bonded vs bolted joint design pros/cons are also an improvement over existing literature. Finally, Part 2 on requirements and substantiation is not widely available in the open literature, at least in such a simplified and readable format.
Dr. Carl Rousseau
ASTM Technical Fellow
Chair of Composite Material Handbook-17 and ASTM D30 working groups
Dr. Esp’s book is an excellent addition to the literature on composite materials, and fills an important niche that has lacked adequate coverage, namely the practical aspects of applying these materials to aircraft structures. The chapters on analysis model validation, comparisons of failure theories, notched strength, bolted and bonded joints, section analysis, stability and sandwich construction provide thorough coverage of important topics that are not typically addressed in textbooks. I believe both young and experienced aerospace engineers will find this to be an extremely valuable industry resource.
Adam Sawicki
Boeing Technical Fellow
Chair of ASTM D30
Dr. Brian Esp’s book provides a comprehensive overview of a broad range of topics relevant to the analysis of aircraft composites. Beyond the general overview, references are provided for the reader who wants more in-depth information. Additionally, the book includes new methods that are still gaining industry acceptance such a linear fracture mechanics for the analysis of delamination onset and growth. Further, for the testing of composites, the reader is pointed to the relevant ASTM standards to obtain material data. Brian single-handedly created a high-quality publication with excellent figures.
Dr.-Ing. Ronald Krueger
Associate Research Fellow
National Institute of Aerospace
Dr. Esp has written an outstanding reference book for the composite stress engineer, and I highly recommend it. It covers the vast field of composite structural mechanics in concise, easily understandable chapters. It also contains excellent material on topics not usually addressed in books on mechanics of composites, such as mechanically fastened joints, bonded joints, repairs, and testing/certification considerations. The coverage of these practical topics make this an invaluable information resource for stress engineers working on aircraft development programs in industry.
Steven G. Russell, Ph.D.
Triumph Aerospace Structures (retired)
This is an excellent book for the practicing engineer who is looking for a practical application of theory. It starts with the background theory and develop it into usable information and methodologies. The author provides good insight along side the theory to help build up the reader's judgment. It is well referenced to industrial and academic literature and well referenced within itself (ie. refer to Chapter.. for more information). Although it is geared towards aircraft composites, there is no reason that it wouldn't apply to any other advanced composites analysis applications.
Casey Keulen, Ph.D., P.Eng.
University of British Columbia