Author(s)

Xin Xiao

Corresponding Author

Xin Xiao

ABSTRACT

The extended finite element method (XFEM) is an effective way to solve the fracture problem. This paper introduced a method combined VCCT with extended finite element method to realize the numerical simulation of composite materials delamination. The process of delamination of single crack and multiple cracks in unidirectional laminate were simulated and revealed two cracks propagation mechanisms further. Numerical results have a good comparison with the experiment results. Studies show that the XFEM/VCCT method can effectively simulate the delamination process of composites laminates.

KEYWORDS

The extended finite element method (XFEM), Virtual Crack Closure Technology (VCCT), composites, delamination, laminate