Simulation of the interaction between matrix crack and inclusion in composites under dynamic loadings

Simulation of the interaction between the matrix-crack and the inclusion in a composite under dynamic tensile loadings is carried out in this paper by using the ABAQUS software based on the so-called Cohesive Crack Model. The numerical results show, for a given interface strength, that the crack deflects into and propagates along the inclusion when the loading-rate (or the strain-rate) is lower than a critical value (the critical strain-rate), otherwise the crack penetrates through the interface and propagates in the inclusion. In addition, the critical strain-rate decreases with the interface strength. When the interface strength exceeds a certain value, the crack growth direction is not affected by the strain-rates, and the crack propagates along the self-similar extension direction. However, the crack deflects directly into and propagates along the interface when the interface strength is below the critical value. Moreover, the critical strain-rate decreases with the inclusion size, which implies that it is more difficult to be fractured for small inclusions. Such a conclusion provides a rational theoretical explanation with the mesoscale viewpoint to the reported experimental data for concrete under dynamic loadings by other researchers.