An Interface-Multilayer Model for Delamination and Contact Analysis in Composite Plates

A technique for analysing mixed mode delamination problems in laminated composite plates, under general loading conditions, is here presented. Modelling the laminate as an assembly of first-order shear deformable plates and interfaces in the thickness direction makes it possible to incorporate transverse shear deformation in the formulation and provides a natural way to compute energy release rates. Lagrange’s and penalty methods are adopted in order to simulate adhesion and contact phenomena. The delamination model is capable of predicting accurately the distributions of both total and individual components of energy release rate. This is verified through comparisons with highly accurate 2D/3D elasticity or finite element solutions. However, these last approaches are more computationally expensive than the present one. Numerical results presented for typical 2D and 3D delamination problems show the efficiency and versatility of the present approach.