An interface approach based on moving mesh and cohesive modeling in Z-pinned composite laminates

An FE approach based Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) and cohesive fracture mechanics is implemented to investigate the effects of debonding mechanisms on the behavior of z-pinned composite laminates. The model is based on the combination of moving and discrete cohesive interface elements, which allow the simulation of interfacial damage or strengthening mechanisms produced by debonding phenomena or z-pinned techniques, respectively. Moreover, complex phenomena such as crack initiation, coalescence mechanisms are easily implemented in both static and dynamic frameworks. Despite existing approaches, available from the literature, the computational procedure is able to overcome difficulties concerning mesh dependence of the solution, numerical complexities and costs involved in the solving procedure. The numerical implementation of the model and its capability to predict debonding mechanisms are discussed with respect different laminate configurations and onset conditions. Moreover, comparisons with existing experimental results available from the literature are developed to investigate the relationship between strengthened and unstrengthened composite laminates. © 2017 Elsevier Ltd