A computational framework for predicting onset and crack propagation in composite structures via eXtended Finite Element Method (XFEM)

Abstract The eXtended Finite Element Method (XFEM) has been reliably used for analyzing crack growth in 3D structural elements over last years. In fact, many researchers have worked in this field, but it is scarce to find scientific contributions about 3D XFEM models applied to the failure of non-standard composite parts, such as tapered structures and thick laminated composites. Thus, a new computational framework is developed, which is based on a new enhanced golden section search algorithm and 3D Puck’s action plane principle in order to define the crack initiation direction. This in-form...