Recently, author had presented that impact force history of composite laminates subjected
to low-velocity impact could be well analyzed using linearized contact law instead of the modified
Hertzian contact law. If the linearized contact law concept is applied in impact response analysis, the
impact problem can be transformed as a general structural analysis problem, so general purpose FEM
software can be used in this kind of impact response analysis. In the present study it will be shown
that impact damage, specially delamination area, as well as impact response can be well analyzed
using the linearized contact law concept. In order to accurately predict delamination area, geometrical
nonlinear analysis considering large deflection effect of plate has been performed and thermal stress
analysis to consider thermal residual strain induced in curing process has been performed. Also, a
proper failure criterion for delamination estimation has been used. In this failure criterion, in-situ
strength values, obtained through matrix crack onset analysis have been used. Finally, analytically
predicted delamination areas have been compared with experimental results. It shows that this
analytical procedure can well predict delamination area of composite laminates subjected to the
low-velocity impact.