A progressive analysis of matrix cracking-induced delamination in composite laminates using an advanced phantom node method. (August 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Reiner, Johannes; Veidt, Martin; Dargusch, Matthew; Gross, Lutz
• Is Part Of: Journal of composite materials. Volume 51:Number 20(2017)
• Page Start: 2933
• Page End: 2947
• Publication Date: 2017-08
• Subjects: Computational mechanics -- finite element analysis -- delamination -- matrix cracking; Composite materials -- Periodicals; Composites -- Périodiques; 620.118
• DOI: 10.1177/0021998316684203
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0021-9983

Abstract

Matrix cracking-induced delamination in composite laminates is qualitatively and quantitatively investigated in a finite element framework. The phantom node method is extended to incorporate breakable interfaces at transverse matrix crack tips. New user-defined element types in Abaqus improve the numerical stability in a geometrically nonlinear analysis. The new formulation allows for accurate prediction of matrix crack density and stiffness reduction in a number of composite laminates. Furthermore, the advanced phantom node method is able to simulate progressive matrix cracking-induced delamination with good accuracy.