Modeling matrix multicracking development of fiber-reinforced ceramic-matrix composites considering fiber debonding

In this paper, the effect of fiber debonding on matrix multicracking development of different fiber-reinforced CMCs is investigated using the micromechanical approach. The Budiansky–Hutchinson–Evans shear-lag model is adopted to analyze the fiber and matrix stress distributions of the damaged composite. The fracture mechanics approach is used to determine the fiber/matrix interface debonding length. Combining the critical matrix strain energy criterion and fracture mechanics fiber/matrix interface debonding criterion, the stress-dependent matrix multicracking development is analyzed for different fiber volume fraction, fiber/matrix interface properties and matrix cracking characteristic stress. The experimental matrix multicracking development of unidirectional C/Si₃N₄, SiC/Si₃N₄, SiC/CAS, SiC/CAS-II, SiC/SiC, SiC/Borosilicate and mini-SiC/SiC composites are predicted.