Accurate prediction of delamination in FRP composite laminates resulting from transverse impact

A simple and computationally efficient adaptive finite element analysis strategy has been adopted for accurate and reliable evaluation of contact force and stresses in FRP composite laminates subjected to transverse impact. Stress based delamination criterion has been utilized to study the initiation of delamination. Hence importance of reliable estimation of stresses is very important for proper prediction of delamination. Contact of a spherical and cylindrical impactor on FRP composite laminates are considered. Studies have clearly shown the importance of appropriate finite element mesh for reliable prediction of delamination initiation and growth. A good number of cases have been considered with varying stacking sequences and using appropriate finite element mesh for studying the vulnerability of composite laminates towards delamination when subjected to transverse impact.