Unraveling crack stability and strain localization in staggered composites by fracture analysis on the shear-lag model

In this study, fracture analysis is carried out on staggered composites with the brick-and-mortar structure. An analytical formula predicting the onset of strain localization emerges from the analysis and is validated by finite element analysis. Furthermore, showing good agreements with independent tensile tests on multi-layer graphene assemblies, our model demonstrates its applicability to explain the strain localization in composites consisting of interfaces that function through re-formable bonds. Characteristic length scales emerging from the analysis can be used to guide the composites design to optimize material toughness and ductility.

Source: Composites Science and Technology - January 16, 2018 Category: Science Source Type: research