Development and validation of a simulation methodology for composite joints with delamination arresting features

Abstract

This paper presents the development of a modelling methodology in a finite element framework for the simulation of novel composite joints with delamination arresting features. The investigated composite joints employ the co-consolidation technique for the assembly of composite skins and stiffeners in a structural joint; in order to arrest and retard delamination damage evolution that may appear during service life, crack stopping features are included in the joint. Progressive damage modelling and cohesive zone modelling methodologies are employed for the analysis of intralaminar and interlaminar failure of laminate composite materials components. The modelling and simulation of experimental test cases available in the open literature are used for validation of the developed progressive damage and cohesive zone models through comparison of numerical results to respective experimental results for all test cases. The mechanical response of the butt-joint structural element is experimentally investigated and linear/nonlinear finite element models are developed to simulate its mechanical behaviour. The comparison between the experimental and numerical results demonstrates the applicability of the developed methodology in the simulation of novel composite structural joints with crack-stopping features.