| Abstract Scope |
Characterization of the mechanical response of composite layups is often done by means of the so-called coupon testing, in which representative specimen of the layups are tested under the guidelines of ASTM standards. Recently, virtual coupon testing is being used as an alternative or preliminary step to the actual tests. In these virtual tests, finite element simulations of the layups are solved under the same conditions given by the standards, allowing a broader design space and a faster, cheaper material design.
In this work, a true multiscale approach is proposed for capturing the complexity of the material behavior in virtual composite coupon testing. Finite element models of representative volume elements at the microstructural level are solved simultaneously with the solution in the coupon level for a better representation of the phenomena happening in all scales of the test. Results are compared with experimental results from the literature, showing good agreement. |