Numerical investigation of the stress field of particulate reinforced polymeric composites subjected to tension

The aim of the present study is the detailed numerical investigation of the stress/strain distribution in polymeric matrix composites reinforced with spherical inclusions, using the finite element method (FEM). Perfect adhesion between the matrix and the inclusions was assumed and from the computed stress/strain profiles of the system, debonding initiation and propagation can easily be predicted. Analytical models available in the literature may predict the stress/strain distribution within the inclusion and along the matrix/inclusion interface, while the FEM may yield results for the whole composite, including within the inclusions. Three typical volume fractions of the composite were examined and the results were justified by the analytical predictions of other researchers. The numerical results show that the matrix starts to debond from the inclusions at angular distance forty-five degrees and as the applied load increases the debonding zone gradually extends