Studies of fiber-matrix debonding

In this paper, the debonding of a single fiber-matrix system of carbon fiber reinforced composite (CFRP) AS4/Epson 828 material is studied using Cohesive Zone Model (CZM). The effect of parameters namely, maximum tangential contact stress, tangential slip distance and artificial damping coefficient on the debonding length at the interface of the fiber-matrix is analyzed. Contact elements used in the CZM are coupled based on a bilinear stress-strain curve. Load is applied on the matrix, tangential to the interface. Hence, debonding is observed primarily in Mode II.Wide range of values are considered to study the inter-dependency of the parameters and its effect on debonding length. Out of the three parameters mentioned, artificial damping coefficient and tangential slip distance significantly affect debonding length. A thorough investigation is recommended for case wise interface debonding analysis, to estimate the optimal parametric values while using CZM.