Real meso-scale model reconstruction and tensile failure prediction of 3D braided PIP-SiCf/SiC composites considering pore defects

Abstract

• A combination of parametric and statistical methods is proposed for the real meso-scale model reconstruction. • The finite element model of 3D6d braided SiCf/SiC composite considering yarn shape and pore defects is established. • To predict well the material tensile properties and failure mechanisms, the effect of the fiber damage and pore defects is considered. • The simulation values and damage modes are consistent with the experimental ones when the damage factor of the fiber bundle is 0.8. This paper presents the real meso-scale model reconstruction and tensile failure prediction of three-dimensional six-directional (3D6d) braided precursor impregnation and pyrolysis (PIP) SiC f /SiC composites. A combination of parametric and statistical methods is proposed, and the real meso-scale finite element model considering yarn shape and pore defects is built. The damage factor is introduced into the mixing law and the progressive damage model is developed. The results reveal that the simulation values and damage modes are consistent with the experimental ones when the damage factor is 0.8. In detail, the predicted errors of modulus, stress and strain are 3%, 9% and 5%, respectively. The main damage modes of 3D6d braided SiC f /SiC composites are braiding yarn shear fracture, fifth yarn tensile fracture, and matrix cracking. Furthermore, the initial damage firstly appears in the braiding yarn, and when the load is near the maximum value, the fifth yarn and matrix also occur the damage.