In this paper a method, called the Damage Zone Model (DZM), is used for predicting strength of composites with through-the-thickness cracks. The DZM is based on the two fundamental parameters unnotched tensile strength (σ0) and apparent fracture energy (G*c). The damage zone, developed at a notch in the composite, is modelled as a crack with cohesive forces acting on the crack surfaces. Redistribution of stresses and change in stiffness is accounted for in the model. For comparison, strengths are also calculated by semi-empirical methods such as the inherent flaw and the point stress criteria.Experimental results for three point bend (TPB), single edge notch (SEN) and compact tension (CT) quasi-isotropic carbon/epoxy specimens are presented. Some results for specimens made from randomly oriented short glass fiber/polyester specimens are also discussed. The damage zone model is shown to accurately predict fracture load, load- deformation behaviour and damage zone sizes in these types of laminates.

Tensile Fracture of Laminates with Cracks

A criterion for predicting the direction of crack extension in orthotropic composite materials is presented. The criterion is based upon the normal stress and the anisotropic tensile strength on arbitrary planes about the tip of a crack. Results are obtained, via finite element solutions, for: (1) isotropic mixed mode fracture, (2) cracks in unidirectional off-axis slotted composite tensile coupons and (3) cracks in cross plied laminates. Comparisons are made with other theories and experimental results.

A normal stress criterion for crack extension direction in orthotropic composite materials

Finite element modelling of fracture propagation in orthotropic materials

The formation of fiber-matrix interfacial reaction zone and its impact on mechanical properties of Gr/201 Al composite (41 vol pct fiber) was evaluated in the as-received condition and after heat treatment in vacuum at 450°C, 500°C, and 545°C temperatures for one day, and at 545°C for one week. After heat treatment the microstructures of matrix and interface were studied by transmission electron microscopy. This study revealed the presence of interfacial constituents Al4C3, Al4O4C, and TiB2. The mean fiber-matrix reaction zone thickness showed an increase with increasing heat treatment temperature and time. The effects of heat treatment on interfacial shear strength, monotonic and cyclic tension/compression properties were evaluated. The results show that the interfacial shear strength not only depends on chemical reaction but also depends on the thickness of the reaction zone. An increase in reaction zone size reduces mechanical bonding considerably (thermal induced stresses). The growth of reaction zone was very detrimental to monotonic and cyclic tension/tension fatigue behavior. The mechanism of failure in tension/tension fatigue was the initiation of cracks at the interface and their subsequent propagation in the matrix. It was concluded that the reaction zone was the controlling factor in tension/tension fatigue. In contrast, the results showed that compressional fatigue was matrix dependent and was little sensitive to the size of the fiber/matrix interfacial reaction zone.

Study of the interface and its effect on mechanical properties of continuous graphite fiber-reinforced 201 aluminum

Effect of rock anisotropy on wellbore stresses and hydraulic fracture propagation

The mixed mode fracture of unidirectional composites is investigated by application of the strain energy density theory. Two analytical models are used. The first assumes that the composite is an ideal homogeneous anisotropic body, and the second assumes that failure takes place in a layer of matrix material whose edges are bonded to two orthotropic plates. The expressions for the strain energy density factor, S, are derived for both models, and brittle fracture is assumed to occur when the S-factor in an element of material ahead of the crack reaches a critical value, Sc. Results are presented for E-glass fiber reinforced plastics, stainless steel fiber reinforced aluminum and graphite fiber epoxy materials and compared with available experimental data. The latter model is preferred as it accounts for the effect of nonhomogeneity that is inherent in the filament-reinforced composites.

E.J. Mcquillen

Papers

Material Characterization on the Fracture of Filament-Reinforced Composites