Finite Element-Based Numerical Simulations to Evaluate the Influence of Wollastonite Microfibers on the Dynamic Compressive Behavior of Cementitious Composites

Abstract

This paper investigates the dynamic compressive behavior of wollastonite fiber-reinforced cementitious mortars using multiscale numerical simulations. The rate dependent behavior of the multiphase heterogeneous systems is captured in a multiscale framework that implements continuum damage towards effective property prediction. The influence of wollastonite fiber content (% by mass) as cement replacement on the dynamic compressive strength and energy absorption capacity is thereafter elucidated. An average compressive strength gain of 40% is obtained for mortars with 10% wollastonite fiber content as cement replacement, as compared to the control mortar at a strain rate of 200/s. The rate dependent constitutive responses enable the computation of energy absorption, which serves as a comparative measure for elucidating the material resistance to impact loads. Approximately a 45% increase in the dynamic energy absorption capacity is observed for the mixture containing 10% wollastonite fibers, as compared to the control case. Overall, the study establishes wollastonite fibers as a sustainable and dynamic performance-enhanced alternative for partial cement replacement. Moreover, the multiscale numerical simulation approach for performance prediction can provide an efficient means for the materials designers and engineers to optimize the size and dosage of wollastonite fibers for desired mechanical performance under dynamic loading conditions.

Elucidating the Interfacial Bonding Behavior of Over-Molded Hybrid Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites: Experiment and Multiscale Numerical Simulation

“…The model parameters for Tables and are used in the input property for the FE model in SLJ simulation. While the fiber–matrix interfaces play a major role in determining the mechanical performance of the composites, − it needs to be noted here that, for the overmolded specimens presented in this work, the fusion bond formed at the interface between the two molded parts serves as the weakest region. As such, the CF/matrix interfaces are likely to play an insignificant role as compared to the fusion-bonded interface between the molded parts.…”