Simulation of drop-weight impact and compression after impact tests on composite laminates

This paper presents finite element simulations of two standardized and sequential tests performed in polymer–matrix composite laminates reinforced by unidirectional fibers: the drop-weight impact test and the compression after impact test. These tests are performed on laboratory coupons, which are monolithic, flat, rectangular composite plates with conventional stacking sequences. The impact and the compression after impact tests are simulated using constitutive material models formulated in the context of continuum damage mechanics. The material models account for both ply failure mechanisms and delamination. Comparisons with experimental data are performed in order to assess the accuracy of the predictions.