Numerical simulation of interfacial debonding in particulate composites considering material inhomogeneities

A comparative study in the framework of large deformations has been conducted to get insight into micro mechanical response of particulate polymeric composites. The propound model enables finite element predictions of displacement response and resulting debonding of a three-phase material subjected to incremental loading conditions. Predictions employ a unit cell of certain shape under specified loading and constraints. The proposed model involves nonlinear material properties and incorporates a strong or weak non-homogeneous interphase region. The interphase toughness is expressed in terms of the adhesion efficiency between the filler and the matrix, though contact conditions are preserved utilizing special contact elements. Interfacial nonlinear spring joint elements regulate debonding initialization, in relation to the imposed failure criterion. Numerical results are presented and discussed for axial tensile and compressive loadings for a variety of values of the imposed parameters.