Heterogeneous fracture mechanics for multi-defect analysis

Discrete flaw computational damage mechanics is often used to certify the life of composite aircraft parts made from continuous fiber reinforced composite laminates. Other modes and combinations of damage that define changes in the defect state and the attendant loss of integrity and increased risk of operation of composite structures throughout the life of a component do not yet have a corresponding general representation. The present paper postulates a more general “heterogeneous fracture mechanics” concept based on an experimental observable and a multiphysics analysis used to interpret such observations, for multi-defect representations. Experimental and analytical foundations for the new concept are presented. The method can provide a foundation for the conception and design of durable and damage tolerant heterogeneous material systems for a myriad of applications, including vehicular and civil structures, medical prosthetics, and energy conversion and storage devices.