An 2-D SGBEM formulation of contact models coupling the interface damage and Coulomb friction in fibre-matrix composites

A new numerical contact model able to predict the interface debonding and damage considering Coulomb friction contact between debonded surfaces has been developed. A comparison of two variants of this model is presented from the mathematical point of view, the Linear Elastic-Brittle Interface Model (LEBIM) and the Cohesive Interface Model (CIM), both combined with frictional contact. The paper discusses the process of the interface debonding in the two subsequent fracture steps: (i) the crack initiation and (ii) the crack propagation in the fibre-matrix interface. The concept of the solution is approximated by a time-stepping procedure and a boundary element approach.