In this paper, two rate-dependent interface models are formulated and discu
ssed. The models are conceived for the simulation of debonding degradation
in polymer matrix composites, the most meaningful example of application be
ing the simulation of rate-dependent delamination. Numerical time integrati
on and the introduction in a finite element analysis program are described
in detail; numerical examples and a comparison with experimental results ar
e presented. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.