Impact of Nonuniform Fiber Arrangements on Simulated Composite Transverse-Tensile Strength

Abstract

Micromechanical models of fiber reinforced composites are becoming a main area of research because damage and failure often initiates at small scales. Microscale features such as fiber clusters and matrix pockets are thought to impact failure because they introduce localized stress concentrations and low stiffness regions where cracks propagate easily. The challenge in modelling these features is due to the fidelity required to capture local fiber to fiber interactions. In this study, a generator was used which can tailor microstructures to create fiber clusters and matrix pockets, while still maintaining a degree of randomness. Fiber clusters and matrix pockets were identified by using an algorithm which sorted and filtered neighboring fiber triads. Descriptors were calculated for each microstructure based on the area and number of clusters, as well as local volume fraction distribution. Microstructures were loaded using a reducedorder model which calculated strength and stiffness. Results show the relationship between generator inputs and descriptor outputs, as well as strength and stiffness.