A novel strength-energy criterion for bimaterial interface crack propagation

Abstract

This paper aims to propose a novel fracture criterion to predict complex propagation behaviors of a bimaterial interface crack, either delaminating along the interface or kinking out of the interface into one of the adjoining materials. A strength-based criterion is used to predict the crack deflection, and an energy-based criterion is adopted to assess delamination along the interface. To determine the competition between these two cracking modes, a competing strategy is developed by comparing the strength-based and energy-based criteria. This coupled strength-energy fracture criterion eliminates the disadvantages arising from a criterion based solely on strength or energy, and is convenient to be calculated and embedded into numerical models. As practice, we embed the criterion into a homemade extended finite element model to simulate bimaterial interface crack propagation. Several numerical examples are performed to verify the effectiveness and accuracy of the developed model. Finally, this model is applied to simulate an interface crack propagation in a sandwich structure that has a specially designed peel-stopper. Parametric studies reveal that the material and interface toughness as well as geometrical dimensions of the structure have significant effects on the propagation mode of the interface crack. The results provide practical suggestions on the optimal design of peel-stopper in sandwich structures.