Simulation of Buckling-Induced Failure in Composite Laminates

This contribution presents a simple model for the analysis of buckling–induced failure in thin–walled composite laminates in the framework of the finite element method. The plies are modeled with shear deformable geometrically non–linear four–node shell elements which are layered according to the classical laminate theory. Shear locking effects are reduced via the well–known assumed natural strains (ANS) approach. A ply discount model is applied for the successive failure of the plies. The cohesive zone approach which is implemented in so–called interface elements is employed for delamination. The failure processes are history dependent leading to non–recurring stiffness degradation in areas where damage is detected. A numerical example with experimental evidence highlights the performance and applicability of the proposed model. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)