Knipprath, ChristianSkordos, Alexandros A.Pickett, Anthony K.2011-08-092011-08-092008-06-01Christian Knipprath, Alexandros A. Skordos and Anthony K. Pickett, A Simplified Discrete Finite Element Model for Non-crimp Fabric Composites, 13th European Conference on Composite Materials, June 2-5, 2008, Stockholm,http://dspace.lib.cranfield.ac.uk/handle/1826/3067In this paper a simplified discrete finite element model for composite materials is introduced. This model allows the discrete representation of both the fibre tows and the resin on a meso-scale level. The capability to assign different material properties to each fibre tow and resin zones allows the investigation of local reinforcements in composites. This modelling concept is combined with a three dimensional damage model and is successfully implemented in a finite element code. Results indicate that relatively fast model analysis and successful approximation of fibre and resin failure under specific load cases may be investigated.en-UKConference paper