The energy-based degradation feature in Simulation Composite Analysis accounts for the residual load carrying capability of a failed composite lamina that is embedded in a composite laminate. If the energy-based degradation feature is activated, Simulation Composite Analysis will gradually reduce the stiffness of the composite after a failure criterion is satisfied, instead of instantaneously reducing the composite stiffness. In this case, the failure criterion simply identifies the initiation of failure. After the failure criterion is satisfied, the composite constituent (fiber/matrix) stiffness is gradually reduced via a series of discrete stiffness reductions applied as the strain state continues to increase beyond the level present at failure initiation.
Throughout this example, an open-hole-tension (OHT) test coupon constructed from a unidirectional IM7/8552 composite (below) is used to demonstrate the process for modeling a composite part using the energy-based degradation feature in Simulation Composite Analysis.
