Novel Method to Utilize Multi-scale Physics-based Technique for Crack Path Determination in Fiber-reinforced Composites Navy SBIR FY2016.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2016.1 Topic No.: N161-010 Topic Title: Novel Method to Utilize Multi-scale Physics-based Technique for Crack Path Determination in Fiber-reinforced Composites Proposal No.: N161-010-0567 Firm: Technical Data Analysis, Inc. 3190 Fairview Park Drive Suite 650 Falls Church, Virginia 22042 Contact: Mehdi Naderi Phone: (703) 226-4073 Web Site: http://www.tda-i.com Abstract: Despite their lightweight and superior performance in service, damage in structural composites involves extremely complicated nonlinear processes acting from the micro-scale (e.g., micro-cracking and crazing), to the structural scale (e.g., large cracks and global buckling). Therefore, high fidelity numerical methods and computer simulation has been extensively used to predict fracture and damage process in composite structures. TDA plans to use advanced finite element methods to determine 3D damage progression in composite structures considering discrete failure modes such as matrix cracking, fiber-matrix shear, fiber breakage, and delamination. Advanced numerical methods and computer simulations are utilized in a virtual test lab capable of capturing the damage initiation and growth. Specifically TDA's focus is on building a virtual multi-scale laboratory which will (a) ease the burden of experiments, (b) provide the evolution of three dimensional crack paths in composite material and (c) predict the failure and damages in fiber reinforced composite materials. The required analytical models are developed in the framework of advanced finite element model. Test-Analysis correlations will be made to improve fidelity of model predictions. Fracture path and life of aerospace structural component under realistic loading scenarios will also be determined. Benefits: TDA envisions that the end product of this research effort will be a Multi-scale Hybrid Framework for Composite Materials, given by a set of computational and analytical tools in a framework that assess cracking in composite materials for various manufacturing configurations. This framework will provide both materials scientists and mechanical engineers better selection criteria for materials, will improve existing materials and manufacturing processes to design against fracture/damage, especially under varying mechanical loading situations and to design new aircraft parts. The computational model will also provide a technique for the evaluation of structural prognosis, that is, prediction of remaining useful life, in the presence of abnormal loading of structures combined with manufacturing defects. Return