A semi-analytical model for the simulation of delamination in laminated composites

A semi-analytical model for the simulation of delamination in laminated composite components is presented. Two well-established approaches are combined in a way to use their specific advantages. The Griffith crack growth criterion is used in order to predict the load required to propagate the delamination, the growth direction, and the growth stability. The compliance functions used in the criterion are evaluated numerically, the finite element method is applied for this purpose. The proposed model allows to treat non-linear structural behavior, including snap-through and snap-back behavior, in a computational efficient way. Furthermore, the influence of size and position of a delamination on the structural response can be investigated in detail. In order to show the capabilities of the proposed approach an L-shaped laminated structure is analyzed with respect to various aspects of its delamination behavior.