A constitutive model for distributed microcracking in titanium matrix composite laminae

The ply constitutive relations of an energy-based model for distributed mic rocracking in continuous fiber reinforced metal matrix composites are prese nted. Simple models for damage progression ave used in conjunction with the se damage dependent constitutive relations to allow the prediction of fatig ue life under constant amplitude, isothermal conditions. The microcracking model is discussed in the context of fatigue analysis of unnotched titanium matrix composite laminates. Analytical results generated by using this mod el in a unidirectional laminate analysis algorithm ave presented and compar ed with experimental results. [S0094-4289(00)03104-2].