Analysis of bioinspired non-interlocking geometrically patterned interfaces under predominant mode I loading.

ABSTRACT

Geometrically patterned interfaces seem to be a common motif in Nature. In particular, geometry plays an important role in increasing the strength, toughness and damage tolerance among different species. Here, we investigate the role of the shape of the opening crack behind the crack tip as the crack propagates along the interface. In particular, we studied the shape of the interface behind the crack tip for different amplitude-to-wavelength aspect ratios with two analytical models and compared with finite element simulations through the J-integral. Additionally, we explore the role of material length scale by investigating the relationship between the geometrical characteristic lengths and the emerging material length scale using a finite element-based cohesive zone model. The results suggest that geometrical toughening is influenced by a size effect, but it is bounded between two extreme conditions.