This topic focuses on developing robust, state-of-the-art simulation tools for composite materials that can accurately capture damage and predict remaining life. We are interested in both structural and multifunctional composites, which can be polymer or ceramic based. Our discrete damage modeling approach has been proven to accurately capture the matrix cracking and delamination patterns observed experimentally, especially for simple stress states. This research opportunity will target enhancements to this technique, including: improving accuracy for complex stress states, accounting for environmental effects (such as moisture ingress and oxidation), handling processing-induced defects, enabling complex and interacting cracking pattern, developing improved fatigue and compressive failure criteria, and improving code scalability and efficiency.

Harman, A. B., Rapking, D., Mollenhauer, D., Iarve, E., 2019. Examination of a small radius of curvature composite notch with a novel chevron feature to improve damage tolerance. Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing 118, pp. 235-249.

Iarve, E. V., Hoos, K., Braginsky, M., Zhou, E., Mollenhauer, D. H., 2017. Progressive failure simulation in laminated composites under fatigue loading by using discrete damage modeling. Journal of Composite Materials 51 (15), pp. 2143-2161.

Iarve, E. V., Mollenhauer, D. H., 2015. 'Mesh-independent matrix cracking and delamination modeling in advanced composite materials', in Camanho, P. P., Hallett, S. R. (ed.) Numerical Modelling of Failure in Advanced Composite Materials, Amsterdam: Woodhead Publishing-Elsevier, pp. 227-264.