Impact of the Boron/Epoxy patch on the Reduction of the interaction Effect Inclusion-Cracked Notch

Abstract

The understanding of the materials fracture requires thorough studies of the phenomena of starting and propagation of the cracks which, in general, occur in the strong stress concentrations zones due to the geometrical and/or metallurgical effects [1]. This also makes it possible to explain the phenomenon of fracture starting and to quantify the SIF with respect to the notch geometry and crack length. In this paper an inclusion-notch interaction effect is modelled using the finite element method. The effect of the inter-distance notch-inclusion and the rigidity ratio of inclusion-matrix are highlighted with regard to the SIF evolution. The SIF evolution of a crack emanating from a notch inside the inclusion as well as the interaction with the inclusion when the notch is outside is studied. The reduction of the SIF due to the interaction crack-inclusion effect by a patch in composite is also determined.