Quasi-crystalline composites, which combine the unique properties of quasicrystals with the mechanical strength of traditional materials, are promising for applications in extreme conditions. However, interfacial fracture remains a critical factor limiting their reliability. Phase-field modeling (PFFM) provides a powerful tool for investigating crack propagation dynamics and fracture mechanisms at the microstructural level.
Within the FPM approach, the interphase boundary is described as a region with a gradient of phase fields reflecting the microstructural features and mechanical properties of the constituent materials. The evolution of these fields, determined by thermodynamic and kinetic equations, models the processes of cohesive and adhesive destruction at the interphase boundary under the influence of external loads.
The modeling includes consideration of interphase boundary energy, elastic deformations and plastic deformation. By varying model parameters such as cohesive energy, bond strength and diffusion coefficient, the influence of microstructural factors on fracture resistance can be investigated.
FPM allows visualization of the process of formation and propagation of microcracks along the interphase boundary, as well as evaluation of critical stress values leading to macroscopic destruction. The obtained results can be used to optimize the composition and microstructure of quasicrystalline composites in order to increase their resistance to interphase destruction.
Author: Hongzhao Li, Weidong Li, Yu Tan, Xiandong Zhou, Haidong Fan, Qingyuan Wang, Peidong Li
Institute: Key Laboratory of Earth Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China, State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Construction and Safe Operation and Maintenance of Deep-sea Structures, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore, School of Environmental Science and Civil Engineering, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu 610059, China