Markov Chains for Damage Accumulation of Organic and Ceramic Matrix Composites

A systematic presentation of the concept of a well-defined stochastic damage accumulation model for fatigue calculation is attempted; the model is applicable for both organic and ceramic matrix composites. Stationary and nonstationary, with one or more blocks, discrete time and finite state Markov chain models are employed. They are found appropriate for yielding fatigue life probability distributions and damage evolution information at different stress levels. The structure, applicability, flexibility, and limitations of the model are examined in detail. The theoretical concepts are elucidated by the incorporation of data from a comprehensive testing program.