Crack paths formed by multiple debonds in LFRP composites

Onset and growth of debonds at fibre-matrix interfaces in a bundle of fibres subjected to transverse loads are studied numerically. In particular, the crack path formed by debonded neighbour fibres is analysed. The Linear Elastic–Brittle Interface Model (LEBIM) is used to model the fibre-matrix interface behaviour. This simple model of a Long Fibre Reinfoced Polymer (LFRP) composite includes ten parallel fibres embedded in a matrix cell whose external dimensions are much larger than the fibre radius. The advantage of the present LEBIM formulation of the so-called matrix cracking lies in its ability to make quantitative predictions about the concurrent fibre-matrix debond onset and mixed-mode interface crack growth in a fibre bundle. The numerical analysis predicts failure loads producing the first and subsequent debond onsets, leading to a crack path. A discussion on the position where debond occurs is also included. Finally, the effect of the load biaxiality on the crack path is studied in detail.