An efficient 2D axisymmetric model for low-velocity impact analysis of composite laminates

Efficient numerical tools are essential for designing impact-resistant composite structures, yet existing high-fidelity three-dimensional (3D) models are constrained by high computational cost. This paper introduces a novel two-dimensional (2D) finite element model for simulating the quasi-static indentation response of composite laminates, providing mechanistic insight comparable to low-velocity impact. The model approximates the ASTM standard test using sublaminate-level homogenisation within a 2D axisymmetric framework and explicitly represents delamination via cohesive interface elements. The underlying assumptions of the 2D formulation are rigorously verified against high-fidelity 3D benchmarks, and the model is validated with experimental data. Compared to equivalent 3D models, the proposed approach reduces simulation runtime by over 99.6% and computational resource requirements by 78.6%. In addition, the simplified geometry also enables the direct identification of dominant deformation mechanisms without extensive post-processing. Overall, this model makes it possible to conduct extensive parametric investigation of composite impact behaviour, facilitating the systematic assessment of governing failure mechanisms and supporting the optimisation of laminate designs for impact resistance.