Effect of Macro and Micro Voids on Elastic Properties of Polymer Composites

Abstract

An analytical model is presented to estimate elastic properties of polymer composites with voids of various sizes and locations. The model is based upon a multi level homogenization procedure incorporated with a micromechanics model. Different scenarios of voids in fiber reinforced composites are considered and their effects on deterioration of elastic properties of the composites are analyzed. Comparisons with finite element numerical results and available experimental results for unidirectional fiber reinforced composites are also provided as an evidence of the applicability of the model.