Computational analysis of the influence of initial defects on the ceramic foam failure upon mechanical loading

The thesis deals with computational modelling of ceramic foams and analysis of influence of structural manufacturing defects (like broken struts, closed pores and material clumps) have on foam strength. Model of foam geometry was discretized using beam elements in order to decrease computational cost. In place where several struct join, rigid beam element was used so that the increased stiffness is better modelled. Closed walls of pores were modelled and discretised by shell elements. Influence of loading direction was analysed on foams containing no defects and then influence of amount of defects in foam on strength was further analysed. Highest strength show foams created by cells whose structs are oriented in direction of loading. These were losing strength most rapidly. Foam with structure of rhombic dodecahedral cell was least influenced by presence of closed pore defects but it also showed lowest strength even without defects. Cells with struts oriented in direction of loading experienced biggest drop in strength. Kelvin cell is a compromise. It was shown that difference in strength of strut with constant and varying cross-section is tenths of percent