Failure process in cross-plied laminates of AS4/3501-6 composite under uniaxial tension was investigated. Transverse matrix cracks in 90°-plies were found to oc cur first. These matrix cracks might or might not induce delamination before failure of the 0°-plies. A model assuming a state of uniform matrix cracking in the 90° laminas was used to predict multiplication of matrix cracks. The probabilistic effect of crack densities resulting in the subsequent change of transverse strength for multiple matrix cracking was addressed. A fracture mechanics-based progressive failure model was developed to predict initiation and propagation of matrix crack-induced delamination.
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