Prediction of a complex delamination front using a general cohesive model

The influence of the delamination direction with respect to fiber orientation in adjacent plies on apparent interlaminar toughness is considered by proposing a general cohesive model. A local delamination-direction definition method adopted. Based mismatch between and direction, linear evolution developed. model implemented user-defined element subroutine ABAQUS validated case study single element. Second, square sample under Mode I fractures designed, where multiple directions, ranging from 0° 90°, form complex front. Nonlocal crack branching can be observed high-delamination angles exist. Using segmented significantly improve accuracy predicting fronts reaction-force-opening curve. This work provides framework assess intra/interlaminar damage coupling during multidirectional propagation.