Mesh and Homogenization Effects of Simulated High Strain Rate Delamination in CFRP Using VCCT

This work uses three-dimensional (3D) continuum models on the explicit finite element (FE) basis to simulate interlaminar delamination of a carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) laminate at a high strain rate. The high strain rate experiments have been performed using the Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) system. The 3D FE simulations, including both CFRP and the entire experimental setup, were carried out by taking into account the highly dynamic nature of the tests. The delamination propagation was modelled using the Virtual Crack Closure Technique (VCCT). The modelling cases covered I) layer-by-layer models; and II) homogenized orthotropic laminate models. A comparison between the experimental and numerical results indicates a good accuracy of the laminate simulation with homogenization. The simulated data shows that the time step selection significantly affects the prediction of the rapid delamination onset and growth at high strain rates.