Image-based Numerical Modeling of Self-Healing in a Ceramic-Matrix Minicomposite

Self-healing is an important phenomenon in new-generation refractory ceramic-matrix composites, obtained by the oxidation of a glass-forming phase in the composite. The dynamics of oxygen diffusion, glass formation and flow are the basic ingredients of a self-healing model that has been developed here in 2D in a transverse crack of a minicomposite. The presented model can work on a realistic image of the material section and is able to simulate healing and quantify the exposure of the material to oxygen, a prerequisite for its lifetime prediction. Crack reopening events are handled satisfactorily, and secondary healing can be simulated. This papers describes and discusses a typical case in order to show the model potentialities.Composites Auto-Cicatrisants Virtuels pour la Propulsion Aéronautiqu