Influence of open holes on composites delamination induced by low velocity impact loads

The aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of holes on delamination induced by low velocity impact on glass/epoxy composite laminates. Plates containing one and two holes were tested and the resulting damage was compared with the one of plate without hole. A finite element analysis including a cohesive mixed-mode damage model was performed in order to better understand the interaction between the resulting delamination and the presence of holes. It was verified that presence of holes increases the energy absorbed by damage as well as the delaminated areas. Delamination profile is also affected owing to alteration of interlaminar shear stress profiles which are the main responsible for delamination between different oriented layers. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.