Application of particle simulation methods to composite materials: a review

Particle simulation methods represent deformation of an object by motion of particles, and their Lagrangian and discrete nature is suitable for explicit modeling of the microstructure of composite materials. They also facilitate handling of large deformation, separation, contact, and coalescence. Mesh-free particle methods will thus be appropriate for a part of issues throughout the lifecycle of composite materials despite their high calculation cost. This study focuses on three particle simulation methods, namely, smoothed particle hydrodynamics, moving particle semi-implicit method, and discrete element method, and reviews approaches for modeling composite materials through these methods. Applicability of each method as well as advantages and drawbacks will be discussed from the viewpoint of engineering of composite materials. This reviewing study suggests capability of particle simulation methods to handle multiphysics and to predict various complex phenomena that necessitate explicit modeling of the material's microstructure consisting of reinforcements (inclusions), matrix, and voids.