A mesoscale ultrasonic attenuation finite element model of composites with random-distributed voids

• Published in: Composites science and technology Vol. 89; pp. 44 - 51
• Main Authors: Yu, Yalin, Ye, Jinrui, Wang, Yang, Zhang, Boming, Qi, Guocheng
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Kidlington Elsevier Ltd 13.12.2013; Elsevier
• Subjects: A. Polymer–matrix composites; Applied sciences; B. Porosity/voids; C. Finite element analysis (FEA); Computer programs; Computer simulation; D. Ultrasonics; Exact sciences and technology; Finite element method; Forms of application and semi-finished materials; Laminates; Mathematical analysis; Mathematical models; Numerical prediction; Polymer industry, paints, wood; Random distribution; Technology of polymers; Ultrasonic testing; Voids; B. Porosity/voids; C. Finite element analysis (FEA); D. Ultrasonics; Random distribution; A. Polymer–matrix composites; Wave attenuation; Laminate; Fiber reinforced material; Epoxy resin; Theoretical study; Mineral fiber; Modeling; Composite material; Finite element method; Manufacturing process; A. Polymer―matrix composites; Numerical simulation; Measurement method; Porosity; Carbon fiber; Ultrasonic method; B. Porosity/voids Random distribution
• ISSN: 0266-3538; 1879-1050
• DOI: 10.1016/j.compscitech.2013.09.006

Interaction between ultrasonic wave and fiber reinforced composites with voids was investigated on the mesoscale by numerical method in this work. DIGIMAT-FE software was used to establish a mesoscale model of void-containing composites, which revealed the real microstructure with randomly distributed voids. Ultrasonic excitation was loaded into the mesoscale model via ABAQUS/Explicit before the finite element analysis (FEA) was carried out. Take T800 carbon fiber/epoxy composite material as an example, the accuracy of the simulated method was verified by comparing the numerical prediction with the analytical and experimental results. Therefore, this simulation method not only can be an effective guidance for manufacturing process but also provide a theoretical basis for reducing void level in order to increase performance of composites.