Journal of Science and Technology of Composites

Journal of Science and Technology of Composites

Assessment of the VCCT approach for finite element modeling of mixed-mode I/II fatigue delamination growth in unidirectional composites with various mode mixing ratios

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
Mohammad Elahifar 1
Mohammad Heidari-Rarani 2
1 Mohammad Elahifar1, Mohammad Heidari-Rarani
2 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Isfahan.
10.22068/jstc.2025.2069976.1936
Abstract
Composite materials have found wide applications in advanced industries due to their unique advantages. However, delamination (layer separation) is recognized as one of the most critical failure mechanisms in these materials under cyclic loading. This research investigates fatigue delamination growth under mixed-mode I and II loading conditions using the Virtual Crack Closure Technique (VCCT). In this study, the effect of the mode mixing ratio on fatigue crack growth behavior has been analyzed with mode ratios of 20%, 50%, and 80%. The Paris law is employed to model crack growth rate, while the BK criterion is used to assess equivalent fracture toughness for mixed-mode. A comparison between numerical findings and experimental data demonstrates that the VCCT method provides reasonable accuracy in predicting delamination behavior. The numerical results indicate that an increased contribution of mode II loading significantly reduces the material's fatigue life. Additionally, the influence of computational parameters on the accuracy of the results is examined. Moreover, selecting an appropriate time increment in the VCCT method is critical for the accuracy of the results. Specifically, using a time increment smaller than 0.005 seconds significantly improves the prediction of outcomes.
Keywords
Fatigue delamination growth
Mixed mode
Finite element model
Virtual crack closure technique (VCCT)

Subjects

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Journal of Science and Technology of Composites
Volume 12, Issue 2
Summer 2025
Pages 2741-2750