Failure mechanism of composite laminate due to quasi-static pressure

An effective calculational model was established to analyze delamination and fiber failure of composite laminates due to quasi-static pressure. The calculational model was based on the 3D progressive damage theory, which can simulate the whole process of the composite laminates failure due to quasi-static pressure. It could calculate and judge failure by each layer and each element, and predict the progressive damage process under increasing load for any layer orientation angle and thickness. The prediction of delamination and fiber failure phenomenon of carbon fiber/epoxy resin laminates as well as delamination and ultimate failure contact force of carbon fiber/bismaleimide resin laminates was made by using this model, and compared with the experiment results. Good agreement between calculational results and experimental results was obtained, which proves that the quasi-static indentation (QSI) is an alternative analysis of low-velocity impact.