Finite element models of natural fibers and their composites: A review

Abstract

Finite element method has been widely applied in modeling natural fibers and natural fiber reinforced composites. This paper is a comprehensive review of finite element models of natural fibers and natural fiber reinforced composites, focusing on the micromechanical properties (strength, deformation, failure, and damage), thermal properties (thermal conductivity), and macro shape deformation (stress–strain and fracture). Representative volume element model is the most popular homogenization-based multi-scale constitutive method used in the finite element method to investigate the effect of microstructures on the mechanical and thermal properties of natural fibers and natural fiber reinforced composites. The representative volume element models of natural fibers and natural fiber reinforced composites at various length scales are discussed, including two types of geometrical modeling methods, the computer-based modeling method and the image-based modeling method. Their modeling efficiency and accuracy are also discussed.

Manufacturing and characterization of hemp‐reinforced epoxy composites

“…The characterization of mechanical properties of NFC plays a crucial role in determining their actual applicability in substitution to traditional composite materials . Models for the prediction of mechanical properties such as the ultimate tensile strength (UTS), the modulus of elasticity (MOE), or the strain of NFC are necessary to enable the adoption of these materials in engineering design …”

Biomimetic systems and design in the 3D characterization of the complex vascular system of bamboo node based on X-ray microtomography and finite element analysis

“…Notably, Petit et al [49] present a broad review and highlight the main applications of lCT and FEA for the study of cellular solids. In another review of FEA of natural fibers and composites reinforced with natural fibers, Xiong et al [50] highlight the importance of considering the irregular cross-section of fibers to improve the accuracy of the analysis. Authors also comment on the benefits of importing the actual geometry directly from lCT as an approach to characterize the sample's microstructure.…”

“…Consequently, those regions were analyzed with minimum mechanical properties and resulted in much smaller local stresses. Therefore, advances in high-resolution imaging methods linked to FEA in complex microstructural arrangements are essential to provide better insights not only into natural materials but also for the composite industry [50,52].…”

Thermoreversible Polymeric Nanocomposites

“…In particular, the geometrical shape of the filler as fibers, platelets, and particles (respectively approached as 1-, 2-, and 3-dimensional objects) is pivotal in determining the final properties. Many studies have been dedicated in the past to understand these features and to develop physical models that are able to predict the properties as a function of the structure [2][3][4][5][6][7][8].…”