Simulation of low-velocity impact damage in layered composites using a cohesive-based finite element technique

The mechanism of damage initiation and growth in layered composites subjected to low-velocity impact is simulated using a cohesive-based finite element technique. The numerical technique used comprises cohesive elements sandwiched between the regular finite elements. The basic structure of the formulation is presented, followed by the results of the simulation. The success of this numerical technique is dependent on the cohesive model used. The cohesive model is a thermodynamically-based phenomenological model, describing the damage ahead of a crack tip. Details of the rate-independent cohesive model used in this study are also presented.