This paper on "Testing and Modelling of Impact Failure Mechanisms in Carbon Fibre" was presented at the NAFEMS World Congress on Design, Simulation & Optimisation: Reliability & Applicability of Computational Methods - 9-11 April 1997, Stuttgart, Germany.

Summary

Tests have been done in order to obtain data for the validation of the finite element code DYNA-3D's failure mechanisms for composites. The tests have been done at high rates of strain and consist of in-plane tension, shear, through thickness tension, beam and plate tests. The results of the modelling show a moderate agreement with the test results but the exact shape, progression of damage and failed shape are not consistent with the test results. It is concluded that the failure criteria are sufficient for a simple prediction of failure initiation but are incapable of predicting damage growth. The predictions for delamination are not correct.