Dear All,

I need to use zero thickness cohesive elements to simulate delamination in a composite laminate. Let’s say I have two components (0 degree and 90 degree lamina) and need to insert a cohesive layer in between them. Neighbouring parts and cohesive elements are having matched mesh. For this scenario what I understand that one could use the option of sharing cohesive elements nodes with the neighbouring parts. I have few questions regarding the modelling aspects as described below-

1. If I create a single zero thickness solid layer by offsetting elements from the 90 degree layer alone, how it is going to connect the 0 degree layer? My understanding is, it will not be connected with 0 degree layer. Is this correct? If so, how to ensure the connectivity? Don’t want to use the Tie constraints.
2. I also need to define contacts between 0 and 90 degree layer so that, when cohesive elements fail it should prevent penetration. This scenario can be well understood from the attached pic. (Taken from Abaqus help). How to do this?
3. “Sharing nodes” does it mean overlapping coincident nodes, or it’s a single node shared by two elements. As per my understanding it means a single node. However, in the model I see separate node number for cohesive element and elements from neighbouring parts. Is it required to merge the nodes?
4. Some you tuber have suggested to create two cohesive layers, one from 0 degree and another one from 90 degree lamina, they have not mentioned anything in particular about the connectivity between two cohesive layers. I think this approach is also not correct simply because a single layer of cohesive element is allowed in a single cohesive zone. Please let me know if I am correct.

I’ve used bottom –up meshing technique to get the matching mesh between two components. Mesh is associated with the geometry.

Appreciate your kind help.

Thanks.

KB