Low-velocity impact predictions of composite laminates using a continuum shell based modeling approach part A: Impact study. (15th December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Thorsson, Solver I.; Waas, Anthony M.; Rassaian, Mostafa
• Is Part Of: International journal of solids and structures. Volume 155(2018)
• Page Start: 185
• Page End: 200
• Publication Date: 2018-12-15
• Subjects: Fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites -- Low velocity impact -- Delamination -- Finite element analysis; Mechanics, Applied -- Periodicals; Structural analysis (Engineering) -- Periodicals; Elastic solids -- Periodicals; Mécanique appliquée -- Périodiques; Constructions, Théorie des -- Périodiques; Solides élastiques -- Périodiques; Elastic solids; Mechanics, Applied; Structural analysis (Engineering); Periodicals; 624.18
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijsolstr.2018.07.020
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0020-7683

Abstract

Abstract: This paper introduces a shell based finite element (FE) model for predicting the impact response and dominant failure mechanisms of fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites subject to low-velocity impact. The model utilizes Enhanced Schapery Theory (EST) for capturing the matrix non-linearity due to micro cracking as well as macroscopic intra-lamina failure, that is, matrix cracking and fiber rupture in the 1–2 failure plane of a lamina. Discrete cohesive elements (DCZM) are utilized for capturing the inter-lamina failure initiation and propagation. The intra- and inter-lamina damage and failure models are implemented as user subroutines in the commercial finite element solver, ABAQUS Explicit. The model is compared against low-velocity impact experimental data. High fidelity non-destructive inspection (NDI) methods are used to quantify the impact damage for a detailed comparison to the model predictions. The modeling technique shows excellent agreement with experimental results, both for impact response and damage evolution.