Towards an advanced modeling of failure mechanisms’ interaction in fiber-reinforced polyester: A mixed-mode loading concept

Abstract This attempt proposes a Finite Element Approach (FEA) to investigate the tribological behavior of glass fiber reinforced polyester composite. The 3D finite element model was developed upon ABAQUS/Explicit. The Johnson-Cook criteria were considered for describing the material behavior and damage of both fiber and matrix phases. The fiber/matrix interface behavior was, however, modeled using a thin cohesive zone (CZ). A mixed-mode loading concept was specially adopted to predict delamination propagation within the interface. The prevailing wear mechanisms owing to Multi-Scratch Test (MST) were inspected at variable load and attack angle, using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Wear maps were built to highlight the correlation between friction coefficient and wear mechanisms. Predictions of both elementary and interacting mechanisms showed excellent correlation with observations. It was revealed that material removal process varies sensitively with the dominating failure mode. The proposed approach exhibits good ability not only in predicting active mechanisms but also in detecting damage sequences governing the surface integrity during scratching.