A data-driven model based on the numerical solution of the equivalent inclusion problem for the analysis of nonlinear short-fibre composites

Abstract

The paper introduces a novel data-driven homogenization model developed for the computation of stress-strain curves for composites featuring arbitrary orientation distributions, aspect ratios, and volume fractions of fibres. The objective of the proposed model is to deliver both time-efficient and accurate results while taking into account a relatively small database. The database is generated through numerical solutions of the equivalent inclusion problem, encompassing results for predefined orientations and aspect ratios of the single inclusion (fibre). The database created for a specific matrix-fibre system can be employed by the surrogate model to predict outcomes for various cases involving different fibre configurations. The surrogate model comprises four key modules: aspect ratio interpolation, a discrete orientation averaging procedure involving a genetic algorithm, a spatial transformation procedure, and an iterative Mori-Tanaka scheme. The validity of the proposed data-driven model has been confirmed by comparing the obtained results with those acquired through analysis of the complex representative volume element (RVE) using Fast Fourier Transform (FFT)-based homogenization, as well as through comparisons with experimental results from the existing literature.