Continuum Damage Modelling of High-Performance Fiber-Reinforced Composite Under Extreme Loading

High-performance fiber-reinforced composite (HPFRC) materials such as aramid and UHMWPE composites have been proven as an adroit protective solution for armor systems (i.e., bulletproof vest and helmet). In terms of modelling complexity and computational time, continuum model of HPFRC is recommended as it doesn’t require modelling of the fiber and resin separately. A continuum material model of HPFRC requires damage initiation and damage evolution parameters to capture the accurate material response, particularly for extreme loading conditions which predominantly involve material failure. Chang-Chang failure criteria are implemented for damage initialization which accounts failure modes for fiber tension, fiber compression, matrix tension, and matrix compression. Fiber damage initialization parameters can be acquired from the series of tests that could be conducted in-house. However, evolution parameters are difficult to acquire experimentally and can be predicted via trial and error. Damage evolution parameters are crucial for modeling of HPFRC as those affect the material response significantly. The present study evaluates the accurate material parameters of Dyneema HB26 (UHMWPE) for blast loading conditions. Numerical simulation is carried out to match the experimental response using extensive calibration of damage evolution parameters via trial and error. Results are compared with the experiments in terms of mid-point displacement and material failure response. The proposed methodology could be implemented for the modeling of the post-damage effect of HPFRC, which is an essential aspect of shock-loading material characterization. Damage evolution parameters are extremely important and must be predicted carefully.