Simulation of damage behavior of a hierarchical biological compositeusing a continuum damage model

Dental enamel possesses extraordinary mechanical properties due to a complex hierarchical and graded microstructure. Understanding the relationship between the hierarchical structure and the flaw-tolerance behavior can be helpful for developing a new high-performance fiber reinforced composite with the desired mechanical properties. In this study, a representative volume element (RVE) is adopted to study the deformation and damage evolution process of the microstructure. A continuum damage mechanic model coupled to hyperelasticity is developed for modeling the initiation and evolution of damage in mineral fibers as well as protein matrix. In addition, debonding of the interface between fiber and matrix is captured by employing the cohesive zone model. The effect of the aspect ratio on the failure mechanisms of the composite is studied with the proposed damage model.