Explicit fracture modelling of cemented tungsten carbide (WC-Co) at the mesoscale

Using Y-Geo software, the combined finite-discrete element method (FDEM) has been used for the first time to simulate fracture explicitly of cemented tungsten carbide (WC-Co). Although originally designed for geomechanical applications, this study has investigated the use of this numerical approach to model WC-Co material at the mesoscale. The composite material is modelled as a heterogeneous structure using fundamental mechanical properties of the respective phases. A series of simulations are validated against both analytical solutions and experimental observations; these cover both elastic and fracture behaviour of the model. Results show good agreement with both analytical stress distribution solutions and experimental fracture path results. For the first time the discrete fracture process, which has previously been described from experimental images, has been replicated by simulation. The study shows the potential of using the finite-discrete element method as a tool for studying fracture of WC-Co, although the paper also highlights areas of understanding that needs to be improved to achieve a robust model. Ultimately by being able to model fracture behaviour accurately, this would enable a systematic study of microstructural variables in isolation to optimise composition to improve fracture toughness, something which is difficult to do experimentally.