Continuum Approach to Damage Mechanics of Composite Materials with Fabric Tensors

The major objective of this work is to apply continuum damage mechanics introduced through the concept of fabric tensors to composite materials within the framework of elasticity theory. A model of directional data damage mechanics for composite materials is formulated using fabric tensors. The physical meaning of damage is enhanced and understood better through the introduction of fabric tensors into the analysis of damage of composite materials. The `continuum approach' is used here to link the fabric tensors' damage effect to the behavior of composite materials. In this approach, damage with fabric tensors is introduced to the composite medium, where the latter is treated as a homogenized material. Also, the overall properties of the composite system as a whole are used without using the constituent properties. A generalized formulation of damage evolution is derived in a mathematically consistent manner that is based on sound thermodynamic principles. A numerical example is presented to show the applicability. In addition, damage evolution for the one-dimensional tension case is also illustrated.