An approach for nonlinear modeling of polymer matrix composites

Abstract

In the present work, a mechanistic modeling approach is pursued for material characterization and for modeling inelastic deformation of polymer matrix composite components. The model attempts to capture the dominant micromechanical deformation mechanisms in laminated composites caused by matrix inelasticity at elevated temperatures. Given material characteristics of the constituent materials, the model can be used in predicting stress, time and temperature-dependent response of a composite under a broad range of thermal and mechanical load conditions. This article describes the modeling approach and examples of its use in a finite element analysis framework. Examples include analyses of simple test specimen coupons, stress concentration at holes and a structural element configuration of a polymer matrix composite. In each case, the model predictions are compared with the experimental measurements.