  Peridynamics (PD) represents a new approach for modelling fracture mechanics,
where a continuum domain is modelled through particles connected via physical
bonds. This formulation allows us to model crack initiation, propagation,
branching and coalescence without special assumptions. Up to date, anisotropic
materials were modelled in the PD framework as different isotropic materials
(for instance, fibre and matrix of a composite laminate), where the stiffness
of the bond depends on its orientation. A non-ordinary state-based formulation
will enable the modelling of generally anisotropic materials, where the
material properties are directly embedded in the formulation. Other material
models include rocks, concrete and biomaterials such as bones. In this paper,
we implemented this model and validated it for anisotropic composite materials.
A composite damage criterion has been employed to model the crack propagation
behaviour. Several numerical examples have been used to validate the approach,
and compared to other benchmark solution from the finite element method (FEM)
and experimental results when available.
