Rational experimental-computational correlation (RECC) of four-point bending testing of multilayer carbon fiber composite

• A novel Rational Experimental-Computational Correlation (RECC) approach is developed for predicting composite behavior accurately and refining FE models. • Sample stiffness decays during loading indicating accurate prediction of material damage evolution. • Full-field DIC is showing to be effective in determining local longitudinal strain and effective bending modulus. • Displacement-based rational correlation is recommended as it delivers more reliable results than strain-based correlation in