Numerical simulation of delamination growth in fiber reinforced polymer laminates using cohesive zone modeling

In this study, the key parameters of cohesive zone modeling, which significantly affect the accuracy in delamination problems, are examined. The study is performed on various standard fracture toughness specimens subjected to mode I, mode II and mixed mode loading. The compressive buckling of a composite laminate is then modeled and the results are validated using virtual crack closure technique. It is shown that the bi-linear interface law with identified parameters provides the best match for the standard fracture toughness specimens while for buckling delamination the effect of interface law shape and interfacial strength is substantial and cannot be ignored.