Multiscale modelling of matrix-crack percolation and gas leakage in fibre-reinforced composites at cryogenic temperatures
File(s)
Published version
Author(s)
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Computational prediction of matrix-crack percolation and gas leakage in fibre-reinforced composites is critical for the design, certification, and safe operation of all-composite Type V pressure vessels under extreme temperatures. Existing approaches rely heavily on full-scale testing and empirical correlations, limiting certification by analysis. This study presents a novel multiscale modelling framework that delivers three key advances. First, continuum damage mechanics (CDM) approach is enriched by a micromechanical damage model, enabling the determination of 11 ply-level strength and toughness parameters directly from microscale damage evolution within a representative volume element using a single set of matrix and fibre–matrix interface cohesive properties. Second, the derived CDM parameters are then used to predict the evolution of through-thickness matrix-crack density with applied load, eliminating the need for experimentally measured crack-spacing data. Third, a computationally efficient method is developed by integrating the crack density with a doubly periodic unit-cell model incorporating cohesive surfaces to predict crack-intersection openings and the corresponding throat areas governing gas transport. Coupling these features with an orifice-flow conductance model enables the determination of through-thickness gas leakage under combined thermal and mechanical loading. The framework is validated against room-temperature experimental data and subsequently applied to predict the cryogenic leakage behaviour, thereby determining the threshold strains for matrix-crack percolation and allowable leak rates. For a representative cross-ply laminate, doubling the cryogenic matrix toughness increases the gas-percolation threshold strain at -253 °C from 0.14% to 0.36%, demonstrating that matrix toughening can substantially delay crack percolation and enhance leakage resistance at cryogenic temperatures.
Date Issued
2026-11-01
Date Acceptance
2026-07-26
Citation
Composites Part B: Engineering, 2026, 326
ISSN
1359-8368
Publisher
Elsevier
Journal / Book Title
Composites Part B: Engineering
Volume
326
Copyright Statement
© 2026 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).
License URL
Identifier
10.1016/j.compositesb.2026.114036
Publication Status
Published
Article Number
114036
Date Publish Online
2026-07-27