Dear all,

I need to do 2D multicrack propagation in a composite laminate (GFRP) in tensile load. I have 3 parts namely (0-90-0 degrees plies). And I already have existing cracks which you can see below in attached pictures. Cracks propagate well, but when it come to the boundary I couldn’t see correct delamination behavior. Is it possible to simulate delamination because of matrix cracking in Abaqus? I both tried cohesive surface and elements. With the elements it says I cant define XFEM crack zone for the cohesive element. With the surface, during loading I see some overclosures and clearances.

Here are my material properties.

Cohesive Surface:

Knn=Kss=Ktt= 1e6 N/mm3 (which I am not so sure)

Damage Initiation: Maxs damage initiation criteria Normal=Shear1=Shear2=3.4MPa.

Damage evolution criteria: Mixed mode behavior=BK(Power=2.2)

Fracture energy: Normal=Shear1=Shear 2= 0.27 N/mm2.

Also, frictionless tangential behavior, and hard contact.

For 0 degrees ply

Damage Initiation: Maxps=807MPa

Damage evolution criteria: Mixed mode behavior=BK(Power=2.2)

Fracture energy: 0.5, 0.5, 0.01 N/mm

Elastic, type=ENGINEERING CONSTANTS 35100.,9600.,9600.,  0.3,  0.3,  0.3, 4000.,4000.4000.,

For 90 degrees ply, I just swap E11 and E33 values, and maxps=15MPa

Can someone suggest me how I can model it and if my material properties are reasonable?

Regards

Berkay