Topology optimization for maximizing the fracture resistance of quasi-brittle composites

In this paper, we propose a numerical framework for optimizing the fracture resistance of quasi-brittle composites through a modification of the topology of the inclusion phase. The phase field method to fracturing is adopted within a regularized description of discontinuities, allowing to take into account cracking in regular meshes, which is highly advantageous for topology optimization purpose. Extended bi-directional evolutionary structural optimization (BESO) method is employed and formulated to find the optimal distribution of inclusion phase, given a target volume fraction of inclusion and seeking a maximal fracture resistance. A computationally efficient adjoint sensitivity formulation is derived to account for the whole fracturing process, involving crack initiation, propagation and complete failure of the specimen. The effectiveness of developed framework is illustrated through a series of 2D and 3D benchmark tests. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.