A Progressive Blended Fatigue Framework for FRPs

Abstract

In general, damage models for Fibre-Reinforced Polymers (FRPs) can be divided into two categories: Continuum Damage Models (CDMs) and Fracture Mechanics Damage Models (FMDMs). Damage models within each of these categories are advantageous for different type of failure mechanisms. Therefore, it is of interest to develop a unified framework in which both categories can be integrated (blended) to achieve a more complete representation of failure mechanisms and their interactions. Furthermore, the unified framework aims for applicability for both quasi-static and fatigue loading. Three damage models have been considered for fibre, matrix and delamination failure. For each damage mechanism it has been demonstrated how the chosen model fits into the unified framework. However, on a short term the feasibility of the framework in a practical implementation is deemed to be unrealistic. The challenges that have to be overcome, before such a framework can effectively be used for practical applications, are explored.