A cohesive zone model for predicting the initiation of Mode II delamination in composites under cyclic loading

A new approach for simulating delamination initiation under cyclic loading is proposed. This approach is based on the hysteresis cohesive zone modeling and the gradual degradation of interface properties. The initiation of delamination is predicted based on the monotonic traction–separation law of the interface. A damage criterion is proposed that depends on the bilinear traction–separation law and interlaminar stiffness is degraded by defining...