The objective of this research is to model the three-dimensional dynamic crack growth and failure mechanism in a composite laminate subjected to low velocity impact. This study will incorporate variationally consistent fracture mechanics elements, multi-failure criteria and parallel processing algorithms. The computational results will be checked with experimental data for low velocity impacts of an object on the surface of a composite panel and a cylinder. The resultant code will provide a quantitative design tool for predicting composite laminate failure under low velocity impact.
