An extended layerwise spectral finite element framework for delamination growth simulation in laminated composite strips

A computational framework is presented for the delamination propagation analysis in laminated composite strips that combines an extended high-order layerwise model and a spectral finite element with high-order spatial approximation in the plane of the structure. The extended layerwise laminate mechanics approximate the through-thickness fields using Hermite cubic splines, while the discontinuities in displacement induced by a delamination crack...