A non-local criterion for modelling unbalanced woven ply laminates with stress concentrations

A non-local ply scale criterion [Hochard C, Lahellec N, Bordreuil C. A ply scale non-local fibre rupture criterion for CFRP woven ply laminated structures. Compos Struct 2007;80:321–26] was previously developed for predicting the failure of balanced woven ply structures with stress concentrations. This non-local criterion was based on the mean values determined over a Fracture Characteristic Volume (FCV) corresponding to a cylinder with a circular area and the same thickness as the ply. This non-local approach along with a ply scale continuum damage behavioural model was implemented in the ABAQUS Finite Element Code. The behavioural model was developed from a classical Continuum Damage Mechanics (CDM) model [Ladevèze P. A damage computational method for composite structures. Comput Struct 1992;44:79–87]. In the present study, this approach was extended to the case of unbalanced woven ply. The FCV approach and the CDM behavioural model are presented and comparisons are made between the experimental data and the modelling predictions obtained on plates with open holes, notches and saw cuts.