MICROMECHANICAL MODELING OF ADVANCED COMPOSITES

Abstract

Advanced composites are increasingly being used as a structural material because of their balanced properties, higher impact resistance, and easier handling and fabrication compared with unidirectional composites. However, complex architecture of these composites leads to difficulties in predicting the mechanical response necessary for product design. Different methods for micromechanical analysis for the evaluation of effective mechanical properties of advanced composites are compared. Difficulties in modeling are highlighted and recommendations are given for micromechanical analysis using the finite element method.