Abstract

Abstract The finite element-based approaches to predict compression-after-impact (CAI) performance of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) subject to a low-velocity impact rely on assumptions about compressive failure mechanisms within the barely visible impact damage (BVID). Comprehensive evaluations of finite element (FE) models concerning accuracy, efficiency, and validity with respect to experimental tests are limited. This study explores several finite element-based approaches developed in ABAQUS Explicit to predict the residual strength and related compressive failure mechanisms of multidirectional CFRP laminates. Drop-weight impact experiments followed by CAI tests employing 3D Digital Image Correlation (DIC) were used to validate our FE models by comparing strength, failure strain, and out-of-plane displacements. This paper evaluates four FE modeling strategies for simulating CAI behavior. Two FE modelling methods were developed that employ a conventional two-step approach to compute CAI response which includes both impact and subsequent compression loading simulations. One of these models includes a novel distal intralaminar cohesive zone (DICZ) to better simulate backside damage during impact. To reduce computation time, we also considered two additional parametric models that both incorporate a simplified impact damage zone including a circular delaminated interfaces and a through-hole. We found that the parametric model with circular delaminated zone is able to predict the residual strength of similarly impact-damaged composites with better computational efficiency and reasonable accuracy, making it suitable for quick estimations where operational safety is a priority. Our findings present FE modeling guidelines for accurately predicting CAI behaviors of composites to aid in structural design.

Department(s)

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Publication Status

Full Text Access

Comments

Baylor University, Grant None

Keywords and Phrases

Composite materials; Compression after impact; Finite element analysis; Non-destructive testing; Ultrasound

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

0734-743X

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2026 Elsevier, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jul 2026

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