A multi-phase-field model for fiber-reinforced composite laminates based on Puck failure theory

Abstract

This article proposes a multi-phase-field model using the Puck failure theory to predict the failure in fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) laminates. Specifically, this work combines a two-dimensional multi-field formulation with an established mesh-overlay representation to compute in-plane intralaminar damage in FRC laminates with different ply orientations. The formulation uses two independent phase-field variables to trigger fiber- and inter-fiber-dominated failure separately, thereby assessing the interaction between the damage mechanisms. Furthermore, two characteristic length scales and two structural tensors are used as mode-dependent regularization parameters. Each ply in the laminate is represented by a separate overlaid element set and is coupled through the shared displacement field. Four benchmark examples are utilized to demonstrate the predictive capability of the proposed model. Specifically, coupon tests in tensile and compressive loading, open-hole tension, compact tension, and double-edged notched tension examples are presented along with the comparison with the experimental results from the literature. Furthermore, results regarding cross-ply laminates and isotropic laminates show the model’s ability to mimic the experimental results both qualitatively and quantitatively.