Three-Dimensional Static and Dynamic Analysis of a Composite Cruciform Structure Subjected to Biaxial Loading: A Discontinuum Approach

A three-dimensional structural integrity analysis using the eXtended Finite Element Method (XFEM) is considered for simulating the crack behaviour of a chopped fibre-glass-reinforced polyester (CGRP) cruciform specimen subjected to a quasi-static tensile biaxial loading. This is the first time this...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:Applied composite materials 2016-04, Vol.23 (2), p.139-154
Main Authors: Navarro-Zafra, J., Curiel-Sosa, J. L., Serna Moreno, M. C.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Characterization and Evaluation of Materials
Chemistry and Materials Science
Classical Mechanics
Computer simulation
Crack initiation
Cracks
Cruciform tests
Industrial Chemistry/Chemical Engineering
Loads (forces)
Materials Science
Mathematical analysis
Polymer Sciences
Stresses
Three dimensional
Citations: Items that this one cites
Items that cite this one
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:A three-dimensional structural integrity analysis using the eXtended Finite Element Method (XFEM) is considered for simulating the crack behaviour of a chopped fibre-glass-reinforced polyester (CGRP) cruciform specimen subjected to a quasi-static tensile biaxial loading. This is the first time this problem is accomplished for computing the stress intensity factors (SIFs) produced in the biaxially loaded area of the cruciform specimen. A static crack analysis for the calculation of the mixed-mode SIFs is carried out. SIFs are calculated for infinite plates under biaxial loading as well as for the CGRP cruciform specimens in order to review the possible edge effects. A ratio relating the side of the central zone of the cruciform and the crack length is proposed. Additionally, the initiation and evolution of a three-dimensional crack are successfully simulated. Specific challenges such as the 3D crack initiation, based on a principal stress criterion, and its front propagation, in perpendicular to the principal stress direction, are conveniently addressed. No initial crack location is pre-defined and an unique crack is developed. Finally, computational outputs are compared with theoretical and experimental results validating the analysis.
ISSN:0929-189X
1573-4897
DOI:10.1007/s10443-015-9453-4