Constitutive models for the structural analysis of composite materials for the finite element analysis: A review of recent practices

Abstract This paper presents a review of some of the constitutive models used in finite element analysis to assess the structural performance of composite materials. The constitutive models were divided into four groups and described along with their applications to composite materials. Typical models are discussed for each group such as the continuum damage model, cohesive damage model, mixture theory model, multi-scale model, and nonorthogonal constitutive model. Due to the complex environments in which composites are applied, the corresponding finite element models need to be modified to be more accurate and efficient under different environments. Accordingly, finite element models of composite materials have progressively developed in recent years. The discussion presented in this work will allow comparing various models for their capabilities and application domains for researchers and industry practitioners developing components using composite materials.