Validation of a simplified analysis for the simulation of delamination of CFRP composite laminated materials under pure mode I

Abstract The cohesive zone modelling (CZM) is extensively used for the simulation of delamination propagation of composite laminated materials. The Finite Element (FE) method is able to support the CZM. Nevertheless, a refined mesh in the cohesive zone is required to describe accurately the energy dissipation. A 1D-beam simplified analysis based on the macro-element (ME) technique has been developed for the stress analysis of bonded joints, supporting damage evolution adhesive material law. The objective of this paper is to provide a validation of the ability of this macro-element technique for the simulation of delamination propagation in pure mode I of composite laminates. This validation is led through a comparative study between experimental test results, 3D FE model predictions and 1D-beam ME predictions. The experimental test campaign allows in particular for the assessment of the interlaminar strength and critical energy release rate in pure mode I. The thermoset unidirectional (UD) prepreg composite material IMA/M21E is used for this paper.