Numerical Simulation of Delamination Growth in Composite Materials

• Type: Technical Report
• Date: 2001

Authors

Pedro Ponces Camanho (Author) FEUP

Other information

Abstract (EN): The use of decohesion elements for the simulation of delamination in composite materials is reviewed. The test methods available to measure the interfacial fracture toughness used in the formulation of decohesion elements are described initially. After a brief presentation of the virtual crack closure technique, the technique most widely used to simulate delamination growth, the formulation of interfacial decohesion elements is described. Problems related with decohesion element constitutive equations, mixed-mode crack growth, element numerical integration and solution procedures are discussed. Based on these investigations, it is concluded that the use of interfacial decohesion elements is a promising technique that avoids the need for a pre-existing crack and pre-defined crack paths, and that these elements can be used to simulate both delamination onset and growth.

Language: Portuguese

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

Reference: NASA/TP-2001-211041

No. of pages: 24