composites
This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the mechanical behaviour and manufacturing methods of continuous fibre-reinforced composite materials. Focused on layered structures (laminates) built from fibre-reinforced polymer laminae, the course explores how tailoring fibre orientations to match loading directions creates materials that are both highly efficient and inherently anisotropic. The heterogeneous nature of composites also introduces unique challenges in processing and design compared to conventional materials.
Central to the course is the Classical Lamination Theory (CLT), which provides a framework for predicting the thermo-mechanical response of composite laminates. The course begins with micromechanics, describing the behaviour of individual laminae based on fibre and matrix properties and their volume fractions. Building on this, CLT is applied to model the mechanical behaviour of multilayered laminates with varying fibre orientations. The course also addresses composite failure mechanisms, manufacturing technologies, and industrial applications.
Practical exercises support the theoretical content with real-world applications. You will apply the acquired knowledge through hands-on exercises and design tasks—such as the conceptual development of a composite drive shaft or hydrogen storage tank—and through a practical lab activity focused on either composite manufacturing or mechanical testing.
After successfully completing this course, you will be able to:
- Derive the mechanical properties of a continuous fibre-reinforced composite ply based on its constituent materials and their volume fractions
- Analyse the stress-strain behaviour of a ply for different fibre orientations
- Derive and evaluate the load-deformation behaviour of laminated composite plates
- Classify failure mechanisms in composite materials and quantify first-ply failure in a laminate
- Select appropriate manufacturing technologies based on part design and production requirements
- Design laminate lay-ups for plate- and cylinder-like composite structures under specified loading conditions
For whom? Professionals with at least degree from a University of Applied Sciences in Engineering with a basic understanding of Matlab/Python
When? For 1 September 2025 - 30 January 2026, this course is spread over two quartiles due to the scheduling of the hands-on experience. During these quartiles there will be given one lecture each week. Next to that there will be a practical in the first quartile (1 September – 7 October), the practical is available on multiple dates/times and will you will have to possibility to enrol for this practical yourself as soon as the schedule is available. At the end of the second quartile the course will be completed with a final exam on campus.
More in depth information on the course in our online course catalogue Osiris : link to osiris course information
Do you want to register for this course? Find the course registration form here
