Key composite modeling approaches:
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▶ Cohesive zone models (CZMs): CZMs are commonly used to model the initiation and propagation of cracks and delamination in composite materials. These models simulate the behavior of the material at the crack tip by representing the material as a series of cohesive elements that connect the two sides of the crack. The CZM parameters are usually calibrated from experimental tests or from higher fidelity simulations, and can be used to predict the critical load required to initiate and propagate cracks and delamination in composite structures.
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▶ Damage models: Damage models are commonly used to simulate the progressive degradation of the composite material due to fatigue loading or other internal or external factors. These models simulate the accumulation of damage in the material, such as matrix cracking or fiber breakage, by using damage evolution laws.
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▶ Continuum damage mechanics models (CDMs): CDMs simulate the degradation of the material by considering the evolution of damage at the continuum scale. These models are typically used to simulate the behavior of composite materials under various loading conditions, including static and dynamic loading. The damage parameters are usually calibrated from experimental tests or from higher fidelity simulations.
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▶ Failure criteria models: Failure criteria are commonly used to predict the onset of failure in composite materials. These models are based on stress or strain-based criteria and are calibrated from experimental tests or from higher fidelity simulations.
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▶ Micromechanical models: Micromechanical models simulate the behavior of composite materials at the microscale, taking into account the interactions between the constituent materials, such as fibers and matrix. These models are typically used to predict the mechanical properties of the composite material, such as stiffness and strength, and to optimize the composite material design.
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▶ XFEM: XFEM is a technique that allows for the simulation of crack propagation without the need for remeshing the material. This is particularly useful for simulating the behavior of composites, which have a complex microstructure that can be difficult to mesh. XFEM has been used to simulate the fracture behavior of composites under different loading conditions, such as tension and bending.
