Abstract
A model is proposed to determine the influence of an interphase on the deflection of a matrix crack in ceramic matrix composites. Then, a finite element analysis is performed for a microcomposite geometry with an annular crack which initiates in the matrix and propagates in the interphase. It is applied to a SiC/C/SiC microcomposite with a pyrocarbon interphase. Criteria for penetration and deflection of the matrix crack are expressed in terms of toughness of the interphase and of the various interfaces (matrix/interphase and interphase/fibre interfaces). The predictions are found to agree with crack deflections observed in practical SiC/SiC composites and with the available interphase toughness data. Results also suggest that the real crack deflection mechanism involves debonding ahead of the propagating matrix crack.
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