Analysis of viscoelastic behaviour of transversely isotropic materials

In this paper a constitutive equation to describe the mechanical behaviour of materials, reinforced with unidirectional fibres, is presented. The material behaviour of both matrix and fibres may be viscoelastic. The constitutive equation is a linear relation between the second Piola–Kirchhoff stress tensor and the Green–Lagrange strain tensor. The effective relaxation functions in the constitutive equation are composed of component relaxation functions employing the structural model of Hashin and Rosen. A two-dimensional membrane element incorporating this constitutive equation is implemented in a finite element program. The results of several calculations are presented in order to demonstrate the possibilities of the numerical tool. One calculation concerns a square membrane with a circular hole in its centre. The effect of fibre orientation on deformation and stresses will be displayed for this structure as well as for another membrane structure.     

Implementation of a constitutive micromechanical model for damage analysis in glass mat reinforced composite structures

A micromechanical model based on a probabilistic approach is implemented in the finite element code CASTEM 2000 to develop numerical simulations that efficiently predict the overall damaged behaviour of random oriented fibre composites. The proposed damage constitutive model is based upon the generalised Mori and Tanaka scheme and Eshelby's equivalence theory. Damage mechanisms occurring at each composite constituent (fibres, matrix and interface) are associated to Weibull probabilistic functions to model their onset and progressive growth at the microscopic scale level. It is obvious that the damaged behaviour of the composite material depends widely on the microscopic material parameters (fibre length, fibre volume fraction, fibre orientation, …). On one hand, the micromechanical model uses homogenisation techniques which enabled us to link these microscopic parameters to the material behaviour and to evaluate explicitly their influences. On the other hand, the implementation of the derived behaviour law into a finite element code enabled us to reflect on the effect of these microscopic parameters on the overall response of a simple composite structure presenting heterogeneous stress fields. In fact, the damage evolution in each constituent (local scale) and the related stiffness reduction are estimated at any material point (integration point) or node of the considered structure subject to a specific loading. Numerical simulations of a composite plate with a hole under in-plane tension were performed to validate the implementation of the behaviour law. Numerical results have been compared to experimental curves and damage evolutions monitored by acoustic emission techniques. Simulations agree well with experimental results in terms of damage onset and growth.     

A numerical approach for determining the effective elastic symmetries of particulate-polymer composites

In this paper we deal with the problem of determining on the one hand the effective elastic properties of particulate-polymer composite materials and on the other hand the actual degree of symmetry of the resulting homogenised material. This twofold purpose has been accomplished by building a 2D as well as a 3D finite element model of the heterogeneous material and by using the strain-energy based numerical homogenisation technique. Both finite element models are able to reproduce with a good level of accuracy the real microstructure of the composite material by considering a random distribution of both particles and air bubbles (that are generated by the fabrication process). To assess the effectiveness of the proposed models, we present a numerical study to determine the effective elastic properties of the composite along with a comparison with the existing analytical and experimental results taken from literature and a sensitivity analysis in terms of the spatial distribution of the particles of the unit cell. Numerical results show that both models are able to provide the equivalent elastic properties with a very good level of accuracy when compared to experimental results and that the particulate-reinforced polymer composite could show, depending on the particles volume fraction and arrangement, an isotropic or a cubic elastic symmetry.     

Damage of short-fibre reinforced materials with anisotropy induced by complex fibres orientations

In this paper, a behaviour model for damageable elastoplastic materials reinforced with short fibres that have complex orientations is proposed. The composite material is seen as the assembly of the matrix medium and several linear elastic fibre media. Its macroscopic behaviour is computed thanks to an additive decomposition of the state potential, with no need to implement complex methods of homogenisation. A 4th-order tensor that depends on the characteristics of each fibre medium is introduced to model the anisotropic damage of the matrix material induced by the reinforcement, as well as the progressive degradation of the fibre–matrix interface. The division of short fibres into several families means that complex distributions of orientation or random orientation can be easily modelled. The model is tested for the case of a polyamide reinforced with different contents of short-glass fibres with distributed orientations and subjected to uniaxial tensile tests in different loading directions. The comparison of the results with experimental data (extracted from the literature) demonstrates the efficiency of the model.     

Micromechanics of multiple cracking Part II Statistical tensile behaviour

A computational model for fibre-reinforced brittle materials in tension is developed. The model includes multiple cracking and strain-hardening processes, as well as single fracture and strain softening. The composite behaviour is derived from a single-fibre analysis by integrating over all possible fibre locations and orientations. The single-fibre analysis is based on symmetry fibres satisfying the equilibrium condition. The result is a complete constitutive relation: stress–strain or stress–crack width curve, and a prediction of crack spacing. The model is an extension of the ACK theory by Aveston, Cooper and Kelly, as it can be used with discontinuous fibres with different distributions, as well as for analysing hybrid composites. Fibre orientation introduces additional phenomena, which are taken into account with simple models. It was seen that matrix spalling at the fibre exit point may have a considerable effect on the composite strain and the crack width. The effect of fibre aspect ratio on the failure mode was studied, and it was found that with an intermediate fibre diameter the composite fails by fibre pull-out in a multiple-cracking stage, resulting in a strain-hardening material with a high ductility. The proposed model was verified against experimental results of a strain-hardening material, called an engineered cementitious composite. The model can be used in tailoring new materials to meet certain requirements, or in studying the effects of micromechanical properties on the composite behaviour, including the crack width, crack spacing, post-cracking strength, ultimate strain, and ductility. The derived constitutive relationship can further be used in finite element analyses defining the behaviour perpendicular to the crack. © 1998 Kluwer Academic Publishers     

Local analysis and global nonlinear behaviour of periodic assemblies of bodies in elastic contact

This work attempts to capture the effects of microstructural changes on the overall response of a composite made of bodies in elastic contact, and to define numerically a homogenised constitutive relationship for the global behaviour. The analysis is restricted to small strains, plane problems and monotonic proportional loads. An important feature of this work is the quasi-static frictional contact analysis of the microstructure composed of deformable elastic bodies by means of parametric quadratic programming principle and its corresponding algorithmic implementation. The generality of the homogenisation algorithm, which, in principle, can be applied to a large variety of non-linear behaviour affecting the representative volume element, is clearly described. Numerical examples are given to demonstrate the efficiency and validity of the algorithm presented in the paper. Received 15 August 1998     

A large strain computational multi-scale model for the dissipative behaviour of wood cell-wall

This paper investigates the non-linear irreversible behaviour of wood cell-walls by means of a finite element-based computational multi-scale approach. A finite strain three-scale model is proposed where the overall response of the cell-wall composite is obtained by the computational homogenisation of a Representative Volume Element (RVE) of cell-wall material, whose mechanical response prediction, in turn, involves the computational homogenisation of a cellulose core–RVE. Numerical material tests are conducted with the proposed model. The results are compared to published experimental data and demonstrate the predictive capability of the proposed model in capturing key features of cell-wall behaviour, such as viscous relaxation, recovery mechanism and hysteresis. The present results suggest a failure mechanism for the cell-wall under straining which is associated with the inelastic yielding of the amorphous portion of cellulose fibres.     

Asymptotic homogenisation in linear elasticity. Part II: Finite element procedures and multiscale applications

The asymptotic expansion homogenisation (AEH) method can be used to solve problems involving physical phenomena on continuous media with periodic microstructures. In particular, the AEH is a useful technique to study of the behaviour of structural components built with composite materials. The main advantages of this approach lie on the fact that (i) it allows a significant reduction of the problem size and (ii) it has the capability to characterise stress and deformation microfields. In fact, specific equations can be developed to define these fields, in a process designated by localisation and not found on typical homogenisation methods. In the AEH methodology, overall material properties can be derived from the mechanical behaviour of selected periodic microscale representative volumes (also known as representative unit-cells, RUC). Nevertheless, unit-cell based modelling requires the control of some parameters, such as reinforcement volume fraction, geometry and distribution within the matrix material. The need for variety and flexibility leads to the development of automatic geometry generation algorithms. Additionally, the unstructured finite element meshes required by these RUC are usually non-periodic and involve the control of specific periodic boundary conditions. This work presents some numerical procedures developed in order to support finite element AEH implementations, rendering them more efficient and less user-dependent. The authors also present a numerical study of the influence of the reinforcement volume fraction on the overall material properties for a metal matrix composite (MMC) reinforced with spherical ceramic particles. A general multiscale application is shown, with both the homogenisation and localisation procedures.     

A micromechanical fracture analysis to investigate the effect of healing particles on the overall mechanical response of a self‐healing particulate composite

A computational fracture analysis is conducted on a self‐healing particulate composite employing a finite element model of an actual microstructure. The key objective is to quantify the effects of the actual morphology and the fracture properties of the healing particles on the overall mechanical behaviour of the (MoSi₂) particle‐dispersed Yttria Stabilised Zirconia (YSZ) composite. To simulate fracture, a cohesive zone approach is utilised whereby cohesive elements are embedded throughout the finite element mesh allowing for arbitrary crack initiation and propagation in the microstructure. The fracture behaviour in terms of the composite strength and the percentage of fractured particles is reported as a function of the mismatch in fracture properties between the healing particles and the matrix as well as a function of particle/matrix interface strength and fracture energy. The study can be used as a guiding tool for designing an extrinsic self‐healing material and understanding the effect of the healing particles on the overall mechanical properties of the material.     

2D finite element analysis of thermally bonded nonwoven materials: Continuous and discontinuous models

Due to a random structure of nonwoven materials, their non-uniform local material properties and nonlinear properties of single fibres, it is difficult to develop a numerical model that adequately accounts for these features and properly describes their performance. Two different finite element (FE) models – continuous and discontinuous – are developed here to describe the tensile behaviour of nonwoven materials. A macro-level continuum finite element model is developed based on the classic composite theory by treating the fibrous network as orthotropic material. This model is used to analyse the effect of thermally bonding points on the deformational behaviour and deformation mechanisms of thermally bonded nonwoven materials at macro-scale. To describe the effects of discontinuous microstructure of the fabric and implement the properties of polypropylene fibres, a micro-level discontinuous finite element model is developed. Applicability of both models to describe various deformational features observed in experiments with a real thermally bonded nonwoven is discussed.     

Governing equations for the steady state creep in orthotropic materials

Summary A general constitutive equation for creep deformation is presented based upon the concept of tensorial internal variables. The consequences of the theory of tensor functions representation are discussed with respect to the evolution equations. In a particular case of steady evolution of internal variables the governing equation for the secondary creep rate is derived in terms of a scalar inelastic potential. The material parameters required to characterize the stationary creep behaviour of the orthotropic composite are obtained from the unidirectional tension creep tests performed on a glass woven fabric xylok composite. Further check on the theory is made for the bidirectionally loaded specimens.With 4 Figures     

Identification of Logarithmic-Type Creep of Calcium-Silicate-Hydrates by Means of Nanoindentation

Abstract:  In order to relate the complex macroscopic behaviour of concrete with finer-scale properties of cement paste, aggregates, porous space, etc. multiscale models are developed. Here, in addition to homogenisation schemes establishing the relation between the properties of the constituents, e.g. matrix and inclusions, and the properties of the composite material, experimental methods for identification of finer-scale properties are required. Recently, the elastic properties of the main clinker phases in ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and calcium-silicate-hydrates (CSH) were identified by nanoindentation (NI). In this paper, the NI technique is extended towards identification of the viscous, time-dependent behaviour of CSH, i.e. the main finer-scale binding phase in OPC-based material systems. Hereby, a logarithmic-type creep behaviour is identified, corresponding perfectly to the creep behaviour encountered for mortars and concrete.     

Simple model for consolidation of metal matrix coated SiC fibre composites

Abstract

A simple approach to modelling the consolidation of matrix coated fibre composites is presented. It employs an existing porous material constitutive model for monolithic materials. It is argued that in the consolidation of metal coated SiC fibres, the deformation primarily occurs in an outer layer of the fibre coating, and the internal core remains undeformed, largely because of the generally hydrostatic compressive loading, and because of the incompressible nature of the material in creep. The consolidation process is therefore not vastly different to that occurs for monolithic metal fibres, and similar equations can therefore be used for the composite consolidation. The constitutive equations have been implemented into general purpose non-linear finite element software within a large deformation formulation by means of two different user subroutines, one providing a general implementation, and the other a cpu time efficient approach. The manufacture and testing of SiC continuous fibre, Ti-6Al-4V metal matrix composite specimens is described and the results of the tests compared with the model calculations, showing that good agreement can be achieved with a simple model. The dependence of volume fraction of fibres and temperature can be introduced empirically through the specification of just two material constants. The model is therefore useful in the development of consolidation processes.     

弹性接触颗粒状周期性结构材料力学分析的均匀化方法(Ⅱ) ——宏观均匀化分析

基于文献[1]的工作,给出弹性接触颗粒状组成周期性结构材料宏观力学均匀化分析新方法。该方法的特点是在对材料进行微观分析的基础上建立宏观材料的均匀化非线性数值本构模型,并在此基础上构造宏观分析的一致性方法。给出了数值算例,说明了方法的正确性与有效性。      

An element-wise scheme to analyse local mechanical anisotropy in fibre-reinforced composites

ABSTRACT

Herein, the general constitutive equation of bi-phasic materials equipped with orientation tensor is presented in direct notation. The formulation is refined by some correction factors specific to natural fibre-reinforced composites; then, a planar case is derived. The necessity of local information is emphasised through the introduction of auxiliary maps, which included volume fraction and orientation data. A semi-analytical homogenisation method is introduced through finite element analysis. Auxiliary maps are shown to be a better alternative to the overall orientation of fibres. Global calculations are insensitive to local variations whilst appropriate auxiliary maps offer refined results. Considering the multidisciplinary application of orientation tensors, the proposed scheme can be used in all areas where local information cannot be disregarded.     

基于弹塑性损伤本构模型的复合材料层合板破坏荷载预测

在连续损伤力学和塑性力学框架内,建立一个同时考虑塑性效应和损伤累积导致材料属性退化的复合材料弹塑性损伤本构模型。基于最近点投影回映算法,开发本构模型的应变驱动隐式积分算法以更新应力及与解答相关的状态变量,并推导与所开发算法相应的数值一致性切线刚度矩阵,保证有限元分析采用NewtonRaphson迭代法解答非线性问题的计算效率。采用断裂带模型对已开发的本构模型软化段进行规则化,以减轻有限元分析结果的网格相关性问题。对损伤变量进行粘滞规则化,并推导出相应的粘滞规则化数值一致性切线刚度张量,解决了在有限元隐式计算程序中采用含应变软化段本构关系的数值分析由于计算困难而提前终止的问题。开发包含数值积分算法的用户材料子程序UMAT,并嵌于有限元程序Abaqus v6.14中。通过对力学行为展现显著塑性效应的AS4/3501-6V型开口复合材料层合板的渐进失效分析,验证本文提出的材料本构模型的有效性。结果显示,预测结果与已报道的试验结果吻合良好,并且预测精度高于其他已有弹性损伤模型。表明已建立的弹塑性损伤本构模型能够准确预测力学行为,展现显著塑性效应的复合材料层合板的破坏荷载,为其构件和结构设计提供一种有效的分析方法。     

Mechanical analysis of bi-component-fibre nonwovens: Finite-element strategy

In thermally bonded bi-component fibre nonwovens, a significant contribution is made by bond points in defining their mechanical behaviour formed as a result of their manufacture. Bond points are composite regions with a sheath material reinforced by a network of fibres’ cores. These composite regions are connected by bi-component fibres — a discontinuous domain of the material. Microstructural and mechanical characterization of this material was carried out with experimental and numerical modelling techniques. Two numerical modelling strategies were implemented: (i) traditional finite element (FE) and (ii) a new parametric discrete phase FE model to elucidate the mechanical behaviour and underlying mechanisms involved in deformation of these materials. In FE models the studied nonwoven material was treated as an assembly of two regions having distinct microstructure and mechanical properties: fibre matrix and bond points. The former is composed of randomly oriented core/sheath fibres acting as load-transfer link between composite bond points. Randomness of material’s microstructure was introduced in terms of orientation distribution function (ODF). The ODF was obtained by analysing the data acquired with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray micro computed tomography (CT). Bond points were treated as a deformable two-phase composite. An in-house algorithm was used to calculate anisotropic material properties of composite bond points based on properties of constituent fibres and manufacturing parameters such as the planar density, core/sheath ratio and fibre diameter. Individual fibres connecting the composite bond points were modelled in the discrete phase model directly according to their orientation distribution. The developed models were validated by comparing numerical results with experimental tensile test data, demonstrating that the proposed approach is highly suitable for prediction of complex deformation mechanisms, mechanical performance and structure-properties relationships of composites.     

Homogenisation Metamodelling of Perforated Plates

Abstract:  The use of finite element (FE)-based homogenisation has improved the study of composite material properties. However, it involves enormous computational effort when implemented in engineering design problems. Therefore an artificial neural network (ANN) surrogate model is proposed here to avoid this issue. In this study, a numerical homogenisation code was developed based on a commercial FE package. It is used to develop the ANN metamodel for an individual composite structure. The effectiveness of the metamodel was examined through an analytical optimisation procedure.     

考虑材料组成特性的混凝土轴拉破坏过程细观数值模拟

为反映骨料、砂浆及其之间的界面过渡区的组合特点和材料性能,基于材料细观非均匀性和有限元方法的混凝土破坏过程细观数值模拟需进行复杂、细致的网格剖分,导致了繁重的前处理工作和可观的计算量。该文对混凝土材料细观单元材质组成的单一化假定进行改进,将内嵌界面过渡区材料的规则化单元视为一种广义复合材料单元,建立了复合型界面损伤模型。采用等效方法确定单元的复合弹性关系,通过有限元法计算单元的局部应力;用细观层次上弹性力学性能的弱化描述单元组成材料的损伤,混凝土材料的破坏过程通过单元各组分的损伤模拟。应用该复合型界面损伤模型研究了混凝土试件的单轴拉伸破坏过程,细观数值模拟结果符合混凝土试件的宏观破坏特征,表明该模型可作为分析混凝土材料破坏过程的一种有效途径。     

Numerical and analytical calculation of the orthotropic heat transfer properties of fibre reinforced materials

This paper is on the investigation of the orthotropic heat transfer properties of unidirectional fibre reinforced materials. The orthotropic effective thermal conductivity of such composite materials is investigated based on two different approaches: the finite element method as a representative for numerical approximation methods and an analytical method for homogenised models based on the solution of the respective boundary value problem. It is found that fibre reinforced composites possess strong orthotropic heat transfer properties, which are getting more distinctive with increasing deviation of the thermal conductivities of matrix and reinforcements. Furthermore, the effect of small perturbations of the periodic configuration of fibres in the matrix on the thermal conductivity is investigated.