A Review on Finite-Element Simulation of Fibre Metal Laminates

Abstract

Fibre metal laminates (FML) are layered materials consisting of both metal and reinforced composite layers. Due to numerous possibilities of configuration, constituent materials, etc., designing and testing such materials can be time- and cost-consuming. In addition to that, some parameters cannot be obtained directly from the experiment campaign. These problems are often overcome by using numerical simulation. In this article, the authors reviewed different approaches to finite element analysis of fibre metal laminates based on published articles and their own experiences. Many aspects of numerical modelling of FMLs can be similar to approaches used for classic laminates. However, in the case of fibre metal laminates, the interface between the metal and the composite layer is very relevant both in experimental and numerical regard. Approaches to modelling this interface have been widely discussed. Numerical simulations of FMLs are often complementary to experimental campaigns, so an experimental background is presented. Then, the software used in numerical analysis is discussed. In the next two chapters, both static and fatigue failure modelling are discussed including several key aspects like dimensionality of the model, approaches to the material model of constituents and holistic view of the material, level of homogenization, type of used finite elements, use of symmetry, and more. The static failure criteria used for both fibres and matrix are discussed along with different damage models for metal layers. In the chapter dedicated to adhesive interface composite—metal, different modelling strategies are discussed including cohesive element, cohesive surfaces, contact with damage formulation and usage of eXtended Finite Element Method. Also, different ways to assess the failure of this layer are described with particular attention to the Cohesive Zone Model with defined Traction–Separation Law. Furthermore, issues related to mixed-mode loading are presented. In the next chapter other aspects of numerical modelling are described like mesh sensitivity, friction, boundary conditions, steering, user-defined materials, and validation. The authors in this article try to evaluate the quality of the different approaches described based on literature review and own research.

Quasi‐static compression behavior and crashworthiness of GLARE laminate conical frustum with progressive circular and square cut‐outs

“…FMLs can be modeled in micro, meso and macroscopic approaches in finite element analysis. [ 48 ] In this study, a finite element model was created in Hypermesh and solved using LS DYNA to analyze the deformation of laminate frustum with cut‐outs. In this regard, a coupon test on the aluminum, FRP material used for making frustum, was conducted by following ASTM E8, D7565 standard in universal testing machine.…”

Assessment of tensile damage mechanism of open‐hole GLARE laminates based on acoustic emission and digital image correlation techniques

“…15,16 Studies have shown that the damage types of FMLs include not only typical composite material damage modes such as fiber fracture, matrix cracking, fibers/matrix debonding and delamination, but also plastic deformation and fracture of metal, metal fiber interlayer debonding and other damage modes. 17,18 These damage modes do not occur independently but rather intersect and correlate with each other, progressively developing over time. This can be particularly serious at the edge of the hole, and the sequence and extent of these damages are critical in assessing the performance and service life of fiber metal laminates.…”

“…The bridging effect between the metal and fiber layers and the anisotropy of the laminate make Glare laminates very different from traditional composites in terms of mechanical properties, and also lead to more complex damage behavior 15,16 . Studies have shown that the damage types of FMLs include not only typical composite material damage modes such as fiber fracture, matrix cracking, fibers/matrix debonding and delamination, but also plastic deformation and fracture of metal, metal fiber interlayer debonding and other damage modes 17,18 . These damage modes do not occur independently but rather intersect and correlate with each other, progressively developing over time.…”

Development of an Innovative Glass/Stainless Steel/Polyamide Commingled Yarn for Fiber–Metal Hybrid Composites

“…The main industrially adopted FMLs are GLARE (glass laminate aluminum-reinforced epoxy), CARALL (carbon-reinforced aluminum laminate) and ARALL (aramid-reinforced aluminum laminate) [ 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 ]. By using such hybrid components, positive hybrid effects can be achieved compared to when using pure fiber-reinforced plastics [ 16 , 17 , 18 ]. The improvement of the impact and crack resistance behavior and thus the improved damage tolerance of these hybrids is a good positive example [ 19 , 20 , 21 ] in addition to the improvement of the mechanical properties (static and dynamic), such as the increase in the stiffness, strength, fatigue strength [ 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 ] and damping, as well the electrical and magnetic properties [ 29 , 30 , 31 ].…”