ABSTRACT Numerical simulation serves as a fundamental tool for investigating the low‐velocity impact damage evolution in composite laminates. This study aims to establish a robust predictive framework by analyzing the performance of different damage models under various conditions. The damage models encompass damage initiation criteria (Puck, Hou, and Hashin, named after the researchers who proposed them, for fiber/matrix damage, inter‐fiber fracture, and generalized damage), damage evolution models (linear and exponential), and interface approaches (zero‐ and finite‐thickness cohesive elements and surface‐based cohesive contact). This study analyzes the applicability of different damage models under two composite materials (T700GC/M21 and T300/WP‐R2300), three stacking sequences (0°/90°/45°/−45°), (90°/0°/−45°/45°), and (0°/90°/0°/90°), and two impact energies (15 and 20 J). Results demonstrate that the combination of the improved selective range golden section search (ISRGSS)‐based Puck criterion, linear evolution, and cohesive elements constitutes a robust framework for predicting low‐velocity impact damage. In‐plane delamination growth is governed by the ply orientation of the adjacent underlying layer, while the extension of in‐plane matrix tensile damage is determined by the current ply orientation. Matrix tensile and compressive damage propagate through the thickness and laterally, with tensile damage extending upward from the bottom layers and compressive damage extending downward from the impact contact.
Jin et al. (2025) studied this question.