The purpose of this research project is to implement cohesive zone modelling in the finite element analysis of composite structures subjected to fatigue loading. The focus of the research lies in the simulation of delamination growth when an initial delamination is present. Delamination is a common failure mode in composite structures. It can be the result of a number of different things such as impact damage, manufacturing defects, fatigue loading or out-of-plane loading, for example when the structure buckles. The characterisation of the delamination growth behaviour is important to ensure safe design. Simulations are a vital part to this characterisation to decrease the necessity of experimental tests, which are often time-consuming and expensive.

Following in the footsteps of the automotive industry with the successful implementation of Formula E, the E-SPARC design is the world’s first all-electric racing aircraft. E-SPARC’s mission is to proof the feasibility of a sustainable and high performance alternative for the current state-of-the-art in aerobatic racing. Thereby, the aim is to present a design worthy of competing in the popular Red Bull Air Races. Given the combination of being the world’s fastest growing international motorsport with the commitment towards reducing the carbon footprint [1], Red Bull Air Races provide the optimal platformfor the E-SPARC design. The leading design question is therefore whether an all-electric racing aircraft can be designed with performance characteristics equal to or exceeding the performance characteristics of the current competition. This report describes the design decisions and outcomes taken during the preliminary design phase, continuing upon the pusher canard configuration that was selected during the conceptual design phase...