Crack Propagation Path in TwoDirectionally Graded Composites Subjected to MixedMode I+II Loading
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Abstract:
Crack propagation path in twodirectionally graded composites was investigated by the finite element method. A graded extended finite element method (XFEM) was employed to calculate displacement and stress fields in cracked graded structures. And a postprocessing subroutine of interaction energy integral was implemented to extract the mixedmode stress intensity factors (SIFs). The maximum hoop stress (MHS) criterion was adopted to predict crack growth direction based on the assumption of local homogenization of asymptotic cracktip fields in graded materials. Effects of material nonhomogeneous parameters on crack propagation paths were also discussed in detail. It is shown that the present method can provide relatively accurate predictions of crack paths in twodirectionally graded composites. Crack propagates in the decreasing direction of effective Young′s modulus. The shape and steepness of property gradient perpendicular to the crack surface have great influences on crack paths. Through redesigning material property reasonably, crack growth in graded material can be changed to improve mechanical behaviours of cracked structures.