Langford Analytic · Knowledge Base

Composite Failure Criteria Comparison Reference

A quick reference comparing maximum stress, maximum strain, Tsai-Hill, Tsai-Wu, Hashin, Puck and LaRC criteria — mode ID, interaction, data needs.

Advanced Damage & Failure3 min read
referencefailure criteriacomparisonHashinPuckLaRCTsai-Wu

Comparison

CriterionMode IDInteractionData NeededBest For
Maximum stressYes (component)NoBasic strengthsSimple screening
Maximum strainYes (component)NoUltimate strainsStrain-based design
Tsai-HillNoYesBasic strengthsOverall screening
Tsai-WuNoYesBasic strengthsOverall screening
HashinYes (fibre/matrix)YesBasic strengthsProgressive damage
PuckYes (+ fracture plane)YesExtended strengthsDetailed analysis
LaRCYes (detailed)YesExtended + misalignmentResearch, compression