Micromechanical Modelling of Transverse Failure in Unidirectional Fibre-Reinforced Composites: Influence of Fibre Volume Fraction and Interfacial Properties
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Date
2025
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Publisher
Saudi Digital Library
Abstract
This study investigates the transverse tensile behaviour and failure mechanisms of unidirectional fibre-reinforced polymer composites with fibre volume fractions of 30%, 40%, 45%, and 50% using a 2D finite element framework. Representative volume elements were developed with an explicitly modelled fibre-matrix interface, where a cohesive zone model captured interfacial debonding and the extended finite element method simulated crack initiation and propagation. The analysis revealed that increasing fibre volume fraction enhanced transverse stiffness but altered the failure mode. The 50% fibre volume fraction configuration achieved the highest strength but fractured abruptly at low strain, while the 45% case exhibited the greatest failure strain with a balanced strengthening response. Stress contour and damage maps showed that higher fibre volume fractions intensified interfacial stresses, leading to earlier crack coalescence along fibre-matrix boundaries
Description
This dissertation presents a micromechanical modelling study of transverse failure in unidirectional fibre-reinforced composites, focusing on the influence of fibre volume fraction and interfacial properties. Using Abaqus 2020, 2D representative volume element models with cohesive zone interfaces and extended finite element method enrichment were developed to simulate transverse tensile loading. The research systematically analyses stress-strain response, fibre-matrix debonding patterns, matrix stress distribution, and crack path morphology across different fibre contents. Results demonstrate the critical trade-off between stiffness, strength, and ductility, providing valuable insights for optimizing composite performance in transverse loading scenarios. The work includes comprehensive methodology documentation, comparative analysis with 3D models, and detailed risk management protocols.
Keywords
Micromechanical modelling, Unidirectional composites, Transverse failure, Fibre volume fraction, Cohesive zone modelling (CZM), Extended finite element method (XFEM), Transverse cracking, Finite element analysis (FEA), Transverse tensile behaviour
Citation
Alsharif, Z.K.Y., 2025. Micromechanical Modelling of Transverse Failure in Unidirectional Fibre-Reinforced Composites: Influence of Fibre Volume Fraction and Interfacial Properties. MSc Thesis. Lancaster University.