Large deflection analysis of composite laminates

A B-spline finite strip model is developed to simulate large deflection and delamination behaviour of laminated composite plates subjected to transverse loading. The model is based on a layer-wise plate theory. The geometrical non-linearity is included through use of von Karman’s non-linear strain–displacement relationship. In order to model progressive failure phenomena of composite laminates, both stress-based criteria and fracture-mechanics-based criteria are employed, and the former for delamination initiation whilst the later for delamination propagation. Comparison is made between the calculations of the present model and available analytical and experimental results.