Enhanced Reverse-Engineering Method for Accurately Predicting Lamina Properties in Laminated Composites via Combined Static and Dynamic Finite Element Simulations

Abstract

This study aims to ascertain the material characteristics that are intrinsic to the prepreg layer within a laminated composite structure. The elastic modulus of the lamina, a primary determinant of composite structural behavior, is the focal point of this analysis. This parameter has been assessed by employing reverse-engineering techniques on a composite composed of sequentially stacked prepregs. The investigation entailed simulating the behavior of the composite under static loads and conducting modal analyses to reflect both static and dynamic conditions. The findings indicate that the elastic modulus values derived from combined tensile and modal analysis simulations exhibit superior accuracy compared to those obtained through tensile simulation alone. Specifically, the maximum prediction error for E1 (the tensile-direction elastic modulus of one lamina sheet) decreased from 1.17% to 0.28%, and that of E2 (the transverse-direction elastic modulus of one lamina sheet) decreased from 12.01% to 7.30%. Further simulations incorporating fabrication error variances underscored the critical nature of precise E2 analysis. The proposed methodology evidenced a more accurate assessment of E2, underscoring its potential to enhance the reverse-engineering process in composite material design.