Large-scale parallel finite element analysis of interface failure in CFRP models

Abstract

Carbon fiber reinforced plastic composites (CFRP) exhibit complex failure mechanisms because they include fiber–matrix and interlaminar interfaces. Detailed modeling of fibers, matrices, and interfaces for conducting accurate progressive damage analysis requires large-scale finite element models. We developed parallel finite element analysis software, that can simulate failure of large-scale CFRP models including interfaces using cohesive elements. We verified the software comparing with proven commercial software. In addition, we validated the software using double cantilever beam tests. The simulation result agrees well with the experimental one. The software can analyze progressive interface damage of large-scale models with more than 77 million degrees of freedom.