An Analysis of Machining Induced Damages in FRP Composites — A Micromechanics Finite Element Approach

The machining of FRP composites has posed a serious challenge to industry and academia alike as far as the sub‐surface damage is concerned caused by fiber‐matrix debonding. Proper prediction of sub‐surface damage is thus essential for different fiber orientations and fiber‐matrix bonding. A Cohesive Zone Modeling (CZM) of the fiber‐matrix debonding leading to interfacial separation is presented in this paper. The cohesive bonding strength existing between the fiber and matrix increases with increased separation, reaches a maximum value before causing permanent debonding when the cohesive strength between the interfaces vanishes. An effort is made to implement the Cohesive Zone Model (CZM) and to ascertain the extent of debonding below the trim plane at fiber failure.