Abstract

This paper presents a 3D damage model utilized for studying the failure characteristics of GLARE. The current damage model adopted the 3D forms of Hashin’s and Puck’s failure criteria for predicting the onset of failure of fibres and matrix in the composite plies. Whilst the damage evolution is modelled based on the dissipation of fracture energy. In addition, a ductile damage model was employed to study the failure of metal layers and the delamination was assessed via a cohesive interface model. The current damage model was adopted to predict the failure modes and the blunt notch strength of GLARE; where various failure modes were observed, such as Fibre breakage, matrix cracking, delamination and plastic damage of aluminium layers. The model showed strong agreement with experimental results.