Three-dimensional Numerical Model for the Notched Strength of Composite Laminates Based on CDM

Abstract

The matrix cracking along the fiber direction may take place at a tensile load near the hole edge. The matrix cracking can blunt the hole and alleviate the stress concentration. In order to accurately simulate this phenomenon, a three-dimensional finite element model is established based on CDM(continuum damage mechanics). A modeling method for different arrangement of grid in laminate is proposed. Surface-based cohesive contacts is established to simulate the inter-ply delamination characteristic. Simulate the open-hole tensile damage of composite laminates with stacking sequences of [0/902/0]S and [0/90/-45]S. The results indicate that the progressive damage process and ultimate tensile strength of the composite laminates with different material system and layer parameters at tensile load can be predicted by this model. The prediction accuracy of this method is satisfactory by comparison with known experimental data in literatures. It is proved that the analysis method is valid.

Keywords

• composite materials
• numerical simulation
• open-hole tension
• cohesive behavior
• finite element model