Prediction of Failures in Single Lap Bonded Composite Joint Subjected to Low Energy Impact Loading

The purpose of this work is to predict the failure modes of single lap composite bonded joints subjected to low energy impact loading using finite element analysis. Experimental data were collected during mechanical tests by impacting the specimen using a drop test tower. Maximum impact induced force and dissipated energy for each specimen were measured. Finite element simulations were carried out in Abaqus/Explicit using two damage models. The first damage model accounts for delamination failure modes by using a de-cohesive contact logic. The second damage model accounts for in-plane failure modes using maximum stress criteria and continuum damage mechanics. These models enable the prediction of inter and intra-laminar failure modes. The predicted impact force, displacement and damage pattern were found to be in good correlation with tests and thermographic inspections.