Simulation of bridging mechanisms in complex laminates using a hybrid PF-CZM method

Delamination and cracking of matrix/fiber is a common failure phenomena reported in fiber reinforced composite materials. As complex stress states develop in laminated structures, they are prone to develop fracture phenomena. Therefore, designs with large damage tolerance are currently implemented in most of the industrial sectors. This can be achieved by designing such materials with superior fracture resistance, which requires a comprehensive understanding of failure mechanisms. Cohesive Zone Models (CZM) are a popular technique to study debonding and decohesion in composite structures. Furthermore, due to the accurate simulation of complex crack paths including crack branching, the Phase Field (PF) approach has gained notable relevance in fracture studies, including the interplay between debonding and crack propagation in the matrix. In order to get a further insight into these intricate scenarios, involving bridging mechanisms in intralayer and interlayer, crack simulation coupling the phase field approach and the cohesive zone model is herein exploited for identifying crack migration through material layers. The crack paths and the related force–displacement curves of 2D multilayered material models of complex laminates are predicted and compared.