A finite element based statistical model for progressive tensile fibre failure in composite laminates

This paper presents a two-parameter integrated Weibull model that is implemented in a finite element analysis to capture the well known “size effect” in composite materials. It can thus account for the effect of randomly distributed defects on fibre dominated tensile failure in a general loading situation. Here it is combined with cohesive interface elements to include the interaction with delamination. As a verification of the modelling method, scaled four-point bend tests from previous research were simulated. The models gave excellent results for both the strains to failure and the final failure modes and captured the observed size effect which cannot be represented by conventional progressive damage models.