Dynamic delamination propagation in composite beams

ABSTRACT: Thc problem of dynamic delamination growth in composite beams is ana-lyzed using finite element method. The delaminated beam is modeled as two beams above and below the plane of delamination. Spring elements we used to connect the beams in the uncracked portion. The dynamic energy release rate is calculated from the strain energy in the crack-tip springs. The crack is allowed to propagate when the energy rclease rate reaches a critical value estimated from experiments. The crack growth histories are com-pared with results from tests on composite beams containing implanted delaminations. The finite elemcnt model is found to be adequate in predicting dynamic delamination growth in laminated composite beams. KEY WORDS delamination, dynamic fracture. finite elements, impct damage