Abstract:

Fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites have been found increasing applications in automotive and aerospace industries since 1960s due to their super mechanical properties. However, accurate prediction of composites damage and fracture are still very challenging because failure modes of composites are very
complex. This review paper summarizes the major modelling methods for composites damage. These methods are classified into three categories, which are the failure criterion method, the continuum damage mechanics method, and plasticity method. The failure criterion method considers the initial or the final failure loci of composites, while the continuum damage mechanics method takes the degradation of material elastic modulus into account. The plasticity method considers the material non-linear behaviors as plasticity. The delamination modelling methods are also reviewed since it is a special failure mode for composites, which greatly depends on the fiber directions and laminate layup. A summary of the advantages and drawbacks of these modelling methods are also provided.

Key words: composite materials, composites fracture modelling, failure criterion method, continuum damage mechanics method, plasticity method, delamination modelling