Modeling and Simulating Progressive Failure in Composite Structures for Automotive Applications

In this paper, it is explained how composite structures, made of continuous fibers embedded in a polymer matrix, are designed and analyzed in the aerospace industry. The strategy is based on the building block approach, in which the knowledge on the composite material and structure is built step by step from the coupon level up to the final full scale structure. Damage is then discussed, as it can't be ignored when composites are concerned. The approach available in the SAMCEF finite element code is then described. It is based on the continuum mechanics approach, and allows studying the progressive failure of composites in the plies and at their interface (so considering delamination). The material models are described, and their use is illustrated at the coupon level. The identification procedure for this damage models is also discussed. It is therefore shown how this information of the material behavior can be used at the upper stages of the building block approach and so applied to larger scale structures. It is advocated here that this approach can be used for the automotive applications, leading to a transfer of technology from aerospace to automotive.