Multiscale nonlinear progressive failure analysis of a composite laminate experiencing delamination as a primary failure mode is studied using multicontinuum theory (MCT). The analysis treats the fiber and matrix constituents of a composite lamina as separate but linked constituents. Fiber failure and matrix failure, including delamination, are modeled independently using stress-based failure criteria formulated in terms of constituent stresses generated through the MCT decomposition. Several variations of modeling the post-failure response of the constituents are investigated. Comparisons of experimental and analytical load-deflection curves are generally excellent The results suggest the MCT analysis, coupled with nonlinear damage progression in a finite element setting, is capable of modeling delamination as a primary failure mode. A comparison of element formulations involving 3-D elements and layered solid and shell elements is also presented. Results indicate there is a trade-off in accuracy and computational speed when using layered elements compared with 3-D elements modeling each ply individually.
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