Thermoforming Modelling and Simulation of Multilayer Composites with Continuous Fibre and Thermoplastic Matrix

Abstract

CFRTP prepreg laminates thermoforming (Continuous Fibre Reinforcements and Thermoplastic Resin) is a fast composite manufacturing process. Furthermore the thermoplastic matrix is favourable to recycling. The development of a thermoforming process is complex and expensive to achieve by trial/error. A simulation approach for thermoforming prepregs thermoplastic is presented. This model is based on a continuous approach. A hyperelastic behaviour is associated with dry reinforcements. The hyperelastic potential is built from the contribution of three principal deformation modes that are supposed to be independent. A nonlinear viscoelastic model based on the generalization of simple rheological models is associated with the in-plane shear mode. The finite element simulation of a thermoforming example using this model is presented.