Transverse failure behavior of fiber-epoxy systems

Cid Alfaro, M.V., Suiker, A.S.J. and De Borst, R. (2010) Transverse failure behavior of fiber-epoxy systems. Journal of Composite Materials, 44(12), pp. 1493-1516. (doi: 10.1177/0021998309360941)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0021998309360941

Abstract

The transverse failure response of unidirectional fiber-epoxy systems is studied by means of finite element simulations. An interface damage model is used for modeling fiber debonding and epoxy cracking. The convergence of the numerical results upon mesh refinement is analyzed. It is found that the failure response depends on the relative strength and relative toughness of the fiber-epoxy interface and the epoxy matrix. The tensile failure response of epoxy systems containing multiple fibers is also analyzed. In addition, the simulations demonstrate the influence on the failure response by the relative strength of the fiber-epoxy interface and the epoxy matrix, and by the fiber volume fraction and fiber distribution. The simulated fracture patterns are shown to be in good agreement with experimental observations reported in the literature.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:De Borst, Professor Rene
Authors: Cid Alfaro, M.V., Suiker, A.S.J., and De Borst, R.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Infrastructure and Environment
Journal Name:Journal of Composite Materials
ISSN:0021-9983
Published Online:25 February 2010

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