Computational analysis of creep fracture deformation in SiC/SiC composites

Creep fracture deformation in SiC/SiC composites was analyzed using a new c omputer simulation method with time-dependent interface elements. The simul ation method was used to describe the crack growth deformation in SiC/SiC c omposite under four-point bending of single-edge-notched beam bend-bars. Tw o methods were used to simulate the crack growth due to fiber creep. In one method, the creep property was introduced into the interface elements by t he general method of FEM analysis. In the second method, a new technique ma king the best use of the potential function was used. The stage-II steady-s tate creep deformation was simulated by both methods, and the stage-III cra ck growth and the transition from stage-II to stage-III could be simulated by only the new method. Additionally, the stage-I was simulated by the new method. The new method has the potential to completely simulate creep fract ure deformation in SiC/SiC composite due to fiber creep. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.