Fragmentation model for tensile behavior of intermingled hybrid composites and optimal mixing ratio

A numerical fragmentation model is proposed to predict the mechanical response of intermingled, unidirectional hybrid composites under tensile loads. The model is based on a previously developed for unidirectional composites considering the critical number of fiber breaks and the correction of the fiber-matrix interfacial strength. Hybrids comprising two reinforcements are considered, and the energetic contribution of reinforcements is evaluated during the damage process. Additionally, the pseudo-ductile strain, yield strength, and the level of degradation of each reinforcement are estimated. The present model is compared with a progressive failure model and micromechanical finite element simulations, obtaining some similarities in the stress-strain behavior.  Results show that both low elongation and high elongation fiber sub-composite experience a linear tensile response where fibers remain intact (IF), and fragmentation (FM) where breaking appears. The sliding/separation phenomenon (SS) occurs in one of the sub-composites when crack saturation is obtained, and failure occurs when the other one undergoes the crack saturation. Results also show that the IF, FM, and SS phenomena are conditioned by the fiber mixing ratio, α. The model allows estimating the optimal value of α for which the highest pseudo-ductile strain and hybrid effect are reached.