Mean field homogenization methods for strand composites

A common method for dealing with in-process manufacturing waste is to cut the prepreg scrap into rectangular strands, and use these strands to produce composites. The properties of the strand composite depend on a number of factors, including the aspect ratio and orientation of the strand. Predictive simulations are required to determine the stiffness of such materials so that optimal composites can be fabricated without extensive experimental testing. In this work, we present a hybrid method for predicting the stiffness of strand composites by using a combination of finite element and analytic mean field homogenization techniques. The proposed model combines the versatility of finite element models and the ease of computation of analytic schemes. This method can be used to model strands of any shape and orientation distribution; it also presents possibilities for detailed parametric analysis. The proposed method yields predictions that are consistent with experimental measurements and provides insights about testing protocols and observed scatter in experimental results. (c) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.