Damage growth analysis in particle-reinforced composite using cohesive element

In this paper, a simple numerical analytical method is proposed for simulating crack extension in a particulate-reinforced composite material. The numerical method is based on finite element analysis with the homogenization method, where crack extension is expressed using embedded cohesive elements. We first present the formulation of the numerical model and verify the model's validity by comparing the simulated crack extension with the linear fracture mechanics. Next we simulate damage extension for a composite reinforced with spherical particles. We consider the cracks in the particles and on particle-matrix interfaces. The analytical results reveal the effect of crack extension on the macroscopic material properties of the composite. The particle crack extends unstably and sharply decreases the tangent modulus of the material, irrespective of the initial flaw size. In contrast, the interfacial crack invariably grows stably and decreases the tangent modulus gradually.