Non-linear mean-field modelling of UD composite laminates accounting for average asymmetric plasticity of the matrix, debonding and progressive failure

As an effective and accurate method for modelling composite materials, mean-field homogenization is still not well studied in modelling non-linear and damage behaviours of UD composites. Investigated micro FE-simulations show that the matrix of UD composites exhibits different average plastic behaviour, named as average asymmetric matrix plasticity (AAMP), when the composite behaves different under shear, longitudinal and transverse loadings. In this study, a non-linear mean-field debonding model (NMFDM) combining a mean-field model and a fibre–matrix interface debonding model, is developed to simulate UD composites under consideration of AAMP, fibre–matrix interface damage and progressive failure. AAMP is considered by using so-called stress mode factor, which is expressed in terms of basic invariants of the matrix deviatoric stress tensor and is used as an indicator for detection of differences in the loading mode. The material behaviour of UD composites with imperfect interface is assumed identical as for perfect interface and stiffness reduced fibres. Progressive failure criteria are established with consideration of fibre breakage and matrix crack for different fibre orientations. As a representative example for the NMFDM, a C30/E201 UD composite is studied. To verify the model, experiments are conducted on polymers, carbon fibres and UD CFRPs. Finally, the model is applied to simulate a perforated CFRP laminate, which shows excellent prediction ability on deformation, debonding and progressive failure.