Finite element buckling analysis of laminated composite sandwich panels with transversely flexible core containing a face/core debond

Abstract

In this article, a new three-dimensional finite element modeling approach with less computing time and space is introduced to study the buckling behavior of sandwich panels, containing a face–core debond. The finite element model presented in this study relates the motion of the face sheets to the core through constraint equations utilizing the concept of slave and master nodes, thus representing a more realistic model of the sandwich panel. The composite face sheets are modeled with shell elements, and the core is modeled using the 3D structural solid elements capable of taking transverse flexibility into consideration. In order to model the debond, the constraints between the nodes of the face sheet and the core are removed and replaced with contact elements in the debonded region to avoid interpenetration. The model is validated through comparison with experimental results reported in the literature. The validated model is then used to study the effects of the size, shape, aspect ratio of the debond, as well as fiber orientation of the face sheets and the influence of core stiffness on the buckling load of the panel subject to different boundary conditions on the top and bottom face sheets of the panel.

On stability and damage behavior of asymmetric sandwich panels under uniaxial compression

“…To further characterize damage mechanisms, FEM compiled with continuum damage mechanics provides a feasible tool [45–49]. To mention some, Avilés and Carlsson [46] formulated a three-dimensional FE model to investigate face-core debonding with calculated stress intensity factor and energy release rate at crack tip.…”

Elastic Soft-Core Sandwich Plates: Critical Loads and Energy Errors in Commercial Codes Due to Choice of Objective Stress Rate

“…Nevertheless, since the skins are quite thin, the effect on the final results is small. For a more accurate representation, shell elements with an offset could be employed [27].…”

Numerical Simulation of Mechanical Behaviour of Composite Sandwich Panels With Defects

“…Also, defects in the form of delamination can be observed in multi-ply skins of sandwich panels. The most researches that are devoted to mechanical behavior of sandwich panels describe the honeycomb core structures, for example [2][3][4][5][6][7]. A comprehensive review of the computational models on honeycomb sandwiches was given by Noor et al [8], where numerous references were cited.…”