Probabilistic multiple cracking model of brittle-matrix composite based on a one-by-one crack tracing algorithm

Abstract

The paper describes a probabilistic model capturing the multiple-cracking behavior of unidirectional brittle-matrix composites loaded in tension. The approach to modeling of composite fragmentation introduces two salient features that enhance both efficiency and flexibility compared to existing simulation methods: First, the algorithm identifies the emerging cracks one by one within a minimum number of load increments. Second, the crack-tracing algorithm is based on an abstract description of a crack bridge behavior. As a result, it is possible to combine the crack-tracing algorithm with a wide variety of crack bridge models, i.e. non-linear, deterministic or probabilistic. In this way, specific phenomena of bond behavior in different types of composites can be accounted for. The random nature of matrix cracking is reproduced using a random field simulation of the matrix strength. The model is verified by reproducing analytical results available for constant bond-slip law. The feasibility and robustness of the algorithm is demonstrated using an interactive web application that is directly executable from within a public github.com repository.