Simulation of Marine Bio-Composite Using Empirical Data Combined with Finite Element Technique

Abstract

After development of world-first marine bio-composite from 100% waste materials, the necessity of obtaining a simulation tool to predict the performance of this novel material under different conditions has arisen. This study examines the combination of empirical optimization and finite element simulation method as an economic and time-effective tool to predict the mechanical performance of novel complex bio-composite mixtures at the design phase. Bio-composite panels were manufactured introducing marine bio-fillers as secondary reinforcements in a wood–polypropylene particulate blend, from 100% waste resources. The particulate panels were subject to tensile test for mechanical characterization. Based on these results, some of the necessary parameters for finite element simulation has defined empirically and a finite element model was developed utilizing ANSYS software, performing a simulation series. Post-processing of the simulation results was carried out to predict the deformation behavior of the material during the three-point bending test. To validate this technique of material definition, the simulated static bending test results were verified with factual physical tests, and both techniques were well in accordance with each other. This simulation method demonstrated reliable feedback on the behavior of materials for the development of innovative complex materials. Therefore, the time invested, materials used and experimental procedures can be significantly reduced, having significant economic benefits for research and industrial projects.

Simulation of Wood Polymer Composites with Finite Element Analysis

“…The microstructural analysis of the fractured cross-sectional surfaces of the composites was conducted using a benchtop SEM (Hitachi Benchtop SEM 3030; Tokyo, Japan) [1]. The samples were sputter coated with platinum at 10 kV for 30 s before the examination [40].…”

“…Young's modulus (MPa) 0.30 [48] 6 [49] Poisson's ratio 0.33 [48] 0.38 [49] Ultimate tensile strength (MPa) 0.5 [50] 21 [49] Based on a study by Roy et al [1], it was assumed that the material would behave as isotropic in nature; it was further required to define its elastic coefficients in ANSYS. Therefore, the acquired engineering stress and strain values were converted into true stress and strain values according to Equations ( 1) and ( 2) [51] and the plastic strain values were calculated according to Equation (3) [1].…”

“…Wood polymer composites (WPCs), introduced in the 1990s, have a lesser environmental impact and lower maintenance compared to other non-sustainable glass-and carbon-reinforced composite materials [1]. Following a rapid increase in demand for sustainable materials in recent years, WPCs have attracted increasing attention from the scientific community and industries to replace non-sustainable composites [2].…”

“…In addition, polymer composites produced using wood filler have favourable mechanical properties and a higher rigidity than unfilled polymer materials [7]. The most significant application of WPCs is in the building and construction industry [1,8]. WPCs are used in a wide range of products, such as railing and fencing for construction [9], and in the interior and exterior parts of automobiles [10,11].…”

“…In addition, a small number of investigations has been conducted on WPCs using FEA. For instance, Roy et al [1] demonstrated the mechanical analysis of composites made of wood waste and recycled polypropylene. The predicted flexural and tensile properties of the biocomposites were validated by experimental data.…”