Tuning crack-inclusion interaction with an applied $$\varvec{T}$$-stress

Abstract

The interaction between cracks and inclusions plays important roles in the fracture behavior of particulate composites. It is commonly recognized that an inclusion stiffer than the matrix tends to deflect an approaching crack away while a softer inclusion attracts the crack. Here, we demonstrate by analytical modeling and numerical simulations that the crack-inclusion interaction can be tuned by an applied T-stress.Under a sufficiently large compressive applied T-stress, cracks can be attracted to stiffer inclusions while repelled by softer ones, thus reversing the conventional trend. Potential applications of this work include composite electrodes in lithium-ion batteries and hydraulic fracturing.

Harnessing impact-induced cracking via stiffness heterogeneity

“…This strategy could be applied further to controllably deflect and guide the crack propagation trajectory, and finally constrain the fracture within a limited region [36,37]. Furthermore, our hybridizing schemes can be applied in combination with other approaches such as applying T-stress [38] to obtain more efficient crack-controlling strategies. These technologies are believed of great value to the design and manufacture of anti-impact materials such as windshields and shields for space stations and satellites [39].…”