Title: Modeling Lifetime Performance of Ceramic Matrix Composites with Reduced Order Homogenization Multiscale Methods
Description: Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMC) are attractive material systems for structural applications where resistance to intermediate (700 0C-950 0C) and high temperatures (900 0C-1400 0C) is required and low density is desired. There are currently barriers to a more widespread adoption of CMCs which include less robust simulation tools, which this dissertation seeks to address. A novel unified reduced order homogenization model for initial quasi-static, creep, and fatigue loading of SiC/SiC CMCs at intermediate and high temperatures is proposed. Driven by a single set of parameters, the model can seamlessly transition between initial quasi-static, creep, and fatigue regimes while capturing the complex material response of SiC/SiC CMCs. The reduced order homogenization approach provides a robust and efficient computational platform for analyzing composite behavior. Continuum damage mechanics provides the basis for the initial brittle CMC behavior while a hybrid damage-viscoplasticity model combined with an oxidation driven crack sealing effect drives the time-dependent brittle-ductile material behavior at high temperatures.

A temporal multiscale approach extends the spatial multiscale model into fatigue regime at high temperatures, avoiding the computational complexity of modeling each cycle individually. At intermediate temperatures, a one-dimensional model based on the slow crack growth model originally proposed by Iyengar and Curtin is generalized to three dimensions focusing on a woven composite architecture. For this oxidation-assisted rupture model, the constitutive equation in the axial tow direction is governed by the continuum damage mechanics variant of the slow crack-growth model and the availability of oxygen to fibers, which in turn depends on the initial matrix pores and subsequent matrix cracking. The model is verified on two SiC/SiC material systems, S200H and GEA SMI, in both initial quasi-static and time-dependent loading regimes at both high and intermediate temperatures.