Journal of Composites Science — Open Access Journal

This work is concerned with the study of the influence of impactor’s velocity parameters, impactor’s geometry, the target plate properties, and thickness, on the response of a tropical wood plastic composite (WPC) Azobé/urea formaldehyde (Az/UF) plate under impact loading. Variations of the impact force, displacement, deformation, and impact energy of the specimens with weight fractions of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50% have been considered in finite element analysis (FEA) simulations. The simulations of the Charpy and of a drop weight impact test on the WPC were carried out using the explicit dynamics module of ANSYS Workbench, which handles problems of dynamic loading of a short duration for 2D and 3D analyses. Contact laws that account for the compressibility of the interacting bodies (the standard steel impactor and the WPC target plate), have been used. The results show that the displacements decrease in contrast to the increase of the wood filler content, and vary in the 6.8–9.0 mm interval. From an energetic point of view, it is observed that the maximum absorbed energy is between 40 and 50% for the Azobe flour wt.%, with energy absorption rates of 28% and 26% of the total energy. These results are in agreement with those reported in previous experimental investigations on hybrid WPCs filled with wood flour and glass fibers, which produce an energy absorption rate of 24–26%. These results promote the applicability of Azobé tropical wood in fabricating WPCs for impact loading situations. Full article

Functionally graded composite materials may constitute an advantageous alternative to engineering applications, allying a customized tailoring capability to its inherent continuous properties transition. However, these attractive characteristics must account for the uncertainty that affects these materials and their structures’ physical quantities. Therefore, it is important to analyze how this uncertainty will modify the foreseen deterministic response of a structure that is built with these materials, identifying which of the parameters are responsible for a greater impact. To pursue this main objective, the material and geometrical parameters that characterize a plate made of an exponentially graded material are generated according to a random multivariate normal distribution, using the Latin hypercube sampling technique. Then, a set of finite element analyses based on the first-order shear deformation theory are performed to characterize the linear static responses of these plates, which are further correlated to the input parameters. This work also considers the constitution of statistic models in order to allow their use as alternative prediction models. The results show that for the plates that were analyzed, the uncertainty associated with the elasticity modulus of both phases is mainly responsible for the maximum transverse deflection variability. The effectiveness of the statistical models that are built are also shown. Full article

The possibility of designing composite panels with non-uniform stiffness properties offers a chance for achieving highly-efficient configurations. This is particularly true for buckling-prone structures, whose response can be shaped through a proper distribution of the membrane and bending stiffnesses. The thermal buckling behaviour of composite panels is among the aspects that could largely benefit from the adoption of a variable-stiffness design, but, in spite of that, it has rarely been addressed. The paper illustrates a semi-analytical approach for evaluating the thermal buckling response of variable-stiffness plates (VSP) by considering different boundary conditions. The formulation relies upon the method of Ritz and a variable-kinematic approach, leading to a computationally efficient implementation, which is particularly useful for exploring the larger design spaces, typical of variable-stiffness configurations. Due to the possibility of choosing the underlying kinematic approach as an input of the analysis, the formulation is not restricted to thin plates, but is suitable for analyzing the response of thick plates as well. Novel results are derived, which can be useful for benchmarking purposes and for gathering insight into the mechanical behaviour of variable-stiffness plates. Furthermore, the importance of transverse shear flexibility is illustrated with respect to the boundary conditions as well as the degree of steering of the fibers. Full article

This paper aims at investigating the general axial behavior of long circular concrete-filled, fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) tube (CFFT) columns internally reinforced with different longitudinal rebars. A total of seven CFFT and three reinforced concrete (RC) columns served as control specimens for comparisons and were constructed and tested under cyclic axial loading until failure. The test parameters were: (1) internal reinforcement type (steel, glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) or carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP)) and amount; (2) GFRP tube thicknesses; and (3) nature of loading. All columns had 1900-mm in height and 213-mm in diameter. Examination of the test results has led to a number of significant conclusions in regards to the trend and ultimate condition of the axial stress-strain behavior, mode of failure of tested CFFT columns, and plastic strains. As expected, an increase in the FRP tube thickness (or stiffness) resulted in an increase in the strength and strain enhancement ratios. The validity of the available design provisions for predicting the ultimate load-carrying capacity of tested columns is also highlighted. Full article

Ultrasonic fabrication of fiber reinforced plastics made from thermoplastic polymer films and carbon or glass fibers enables cycle times of a few seconds and requires investment costs of only some 10,000 €. Besides this, the raw materials can be stored at room temperature. A fiber content of 33 vol % and a tensile strength of approximately 1.2 GPa have been achieved by ultrasonic welding of nine layers of foils from polyamide, each 100 µm in thickness, and eight layers of carbon fibers, each 100 µm in thickness, in between. Besides unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced polymer composite (CFRP) samples, multi-directional CFRP plates, 116 mm, 64 mm and 1.2 mm in length, width and thickness respectively, were fabricated by processing three layers of carbon fiber canvas, each 300 µm in thickness, and eight layers of polyamide foils, each 100 µm in thickness. Furthermore, both the discontinuous and the continuous ultrasonic fabrication processes are described and the results are presented in this paper. Large-scale production still needs to be demonstrated. Full article

Contemporary structures can resist earthquakes as they deform and dissipate energy. However, during strong ground motions, these structures can sustain significant concrete damage and overall permanent deformations. Therefore, it is of great benefit if earthquake-resisting structures can deform and dissipate energy, and yet sustain mitigated damage. This paper illustrates the findings of an experimental study focused on the mitigation of damage and reduction of residual displacements in reinforced concrete (RC) shear walls. In this study, the cyclic properties of two innovative shear walls—a slender and a squat wall—which were cast with fiber-reinforced cementitious composites and reinforced with steel and glass fiber reinforced polymer bars are investigated. Then, the improvements of the innovative specimens with respect to two conventional RC shear walls are discussed in terms of damage propagation, self-centering, stiffness retention and energy dissipation. As the experiments showed, the innovative walls sustained mitigated concrete damage and less residual drift ratios while illustrating significant stiffness and energy dissipation capacities. Full article

The magneto-rheological effects in iron-elastomer composites (IEC) were investigated by simulation, surface topography, and 3D representation. The simulated behavior of magneto-rheological elastomeric composites in the presence of an external magnetic field was determined and the influence of magnetic intensity on the isotropic distribution of iron filler particles in IECs was investigated. The magnetic intensity distribution was analyzed from the edge of the surface towards the center of the IEC. The samples were characterized for microstructural images after experimental tests using both micro-computed tomography (µCT) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The adhesion of filler particles within the matrix of the magneto-rheological elastomer (MRE) composite and their distributions were also investigated. µCT showed the overall 3D representation of IEC and the inner distribution of filler particles revealed the presence of some porosity which may be due to bubbles and voids in the matrix of the composite. Finally, a mechanism was established governing particle–particle interactions on the basis of dipole–dipole interactions. Full article

Composite materials have recently been of particular interest to the automotive industry due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and versatility. Among the different composite materials used in mass-produced vehicles are sheet moulded compound (SMC) composites, which consist of random fibres, making them inexpensive candidates for non-structural applications in future vehicles. In this work, SMC composite materials were prepared with varying fibre orientations and volume fractions (25% and 45%) and subjected to a series of uniaxial tensile and flexural bending tests at a strain rate of 3 × 10⁻³ s⁻¹. Tensile strength as well as failure strain increased with the increasing fibre volume fraction for the uniaxial tests. Flexural strength was found to also increase with increasing fibre percentage; however, failure displacement was found to decrease. The two material directions studied—longitudinal and transverse—showed superior strength and failure strain/displacement in the transverse direction. The experimental results were then used to create a finite element model to describe the deformation behaviour of SMC composites. Tensile results were first used to create and calibrate the model; then, the model was validated with flexural experimental results. The finite element model closely predicted both SMC volume fraction samples, predicting the failure force and displacement with less than 3.5% error in the lower volume fraction tests, and 6.6% error in the higher volume fraction tests. Full article

Introduction of TiB₂ reinforcements into aluminium matrices allows composites to be obtained that exhibit excellent mechanical properties and good wear and corrosion resistance. These composites find applications in the automotive, aerospace and marine industries. In the present work, the in situ synthesis of ultrafine TiB₂ particulates in an aluminium matrix was accomplished by reaction synthesis of TiB₂ using K₂TiF₆ and KBF₄ (in 120% excess to the stoichiometrically needed) fluxes in pre-melted aluminium. Composites were prepared with different concentrations of TiB₂ in (2.5, 5 and 10 wt %) in an aluminium matrix. The holding time of the molten composite in an induction furnace was varied from 10 min to 50 min. The in situ formation of TiB₂ reinforcement and its distribution in cast aluminiummatrix composites was analyzed based on microstructural studies, microhardness measurements and wear tests. The exothermic reaction between the halide fluxes starts after 10 min of holding time and completes before 20 min of holding time. The dominant phase was TiB₂ after 20 min of holding time, while the formation of Ti₃B₄ was observed as the holding time was extended. The distribution of the reinforcing phases was studied by analyzing the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. An optimum holding time (20 min) of the composite melt was determined based on the dominant wear mechanism, microhardness, and phase composition of the composites. Full article

Tricalcium phosphate (Ca₃(PO₄)₂, TCP) is a ceramic widely used as a bone filler material due to its good osteoconductivity. Nevertheless, its poor mechanical properties do not allow its use for load-bearing applications. Therefore, the option of improving its strength and toughness by adding a biocompatible metallic component is a promising alternative to overcome this drawback, leading to the fabrication of improved bone implants. The present work is focused on defining the thermal stability of alpha-TCP (α-TCP) when it is sintered together with iron (Fe) by spark plasma sintering. The results showed the thermal stability of the composite with no degradation or oxidation in the ceramic or metal phase. A clear advantage from the TCP-Fe composites when compared with others, such as hydroxyapatite-titanium, is the complete retention of the TCP due to the less reactivity with iron respect to titanium. Furthermore, the allotropic phase transformation from alpha to beta-TCP polymorph was reduced by sintering at 900 °C. However, the densification of the material was also impaired at this temperature. It is expected that spark plasma sintering will allow the fabrication of TCP–Fe composites free of secondary phases that compromise the mechanical strength of the material. Full article

This research focuses on the fabrication of aluminum wires treated with MoB₂ nanoparticles and their effect on selected mechanical and thermal properties of the wires. These nanoparticles were obtained by fragmentation in a high-energy ball mill and then mechanically alloyed with pure aluminum powder to form Al/MoB₂ pellets. The pellets were added to molten pure aluminum (99.5%) at 760 °C. Afterwards, the treated melt was cast into cylindrical ingots, which were cold-formed to the desired final diameter with intermediate annealing. X-ray diffraction and optical microscopy allowed characterizing the structure and microstructure of the material. The wires underwent tensile and bending tests, as well as electrical measurements. Finally, this research demonstrated how the mechanical properties of aluminum wires can be enhanced with the addition of MoB₂ nanoparticles with minimal effects on the material resistivity. Full article

The demand for aluminum hybrid metal matrix composites has increased in recent times due to their enhanced mechanical properties for satisfying the requirements of advanced engineering applications. The performance of these materials is greatly influenced by the selection of an appropriate combination of reinforcement materials. The reinforcement materials include carbides, nitrides, and oxides. The ceramic particles, such as silicon carbide and aluminum oxide, are the most widely used reinforcement materials for preparing these composites. In this paper, an attempt has been made to prepare an Al6061 hybrid metal matrix composite (HAMMC) reinforced with particulates with different weight fractions of SiC and Al₂O₃ and a constant weight fraction (5%) of fly ash by a stir-casting process. The experimental study has been carried out on the prepared composite to investigate the mechanical properties due to the addition of multiple reinforcement materials. The density and mechanical properties, such as ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, impact strength, and the hardness and wear characteristics of the proposed composite, are compared with those of unreinforced Al6061. The experimental investigation is also aimed at observing the variation of properties with a varying weight percentage of the reinforcement materials SiC and Al₂O₃ simultaneously with the fly ash content maintained constant. The outcome of the experimental investigation revealed that the proposed hybrid composite with 20% of total reinforcement material exhibits high hardness, high yield strength, and low wear rate but no considerable improvement in impact strength. Full article

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. Full article

In this article, the elastic properties of long-fiber injection-molded thermoplastics (LFTs) are investigated by micro-mechanical approaches including the Halpin-Tsai (HT) model and the Mori-Tanaka model based on Eshelby’s equivalent inclusion (EMT). In the modeling, the elastic properties are calculated by the fiber content, fiber length, and fiber orientation. Several closure approximations for the fourth-order fiber orientation tensor are evaluated by comparing the as-calculated elastic stiffness with that from the original experimental fourth-order tensor. An empirical model was developed to correct the fibers’ aspect ratio in the computation for the actual as-formed LFTs with fiber bundles under high fiber content. After the correction, the analytical predictions had good agreement with the experimental stiffness values from tensile tests on the LFTs. Our analysis shows that it is essential to incorporate the effect of the presence of fiber bundles to accurately predict the composite properties. This work involved the use of experimental values of fiber orientation and serves as the basis for computing part stiffness as a function of mold filling conditions. The work also explains why the modulus tends to level off with fiber concentration. Full article

As the applications for additive manufacturing have continued to grow, so too has the range of available materials, with more functional or better performing materials constantly under development. This work characterizes a copper-filled polyamide 6 (PA6) thermoplastic composite designed to enhance the thermal conductivity of fused filament fabrication (FFF) parts, especially for heat transfer applications. The composite was mixed and extruded into filament using twin screw extrusion. Because the fiber orientation within the material governs the thermal conductivity of the material, the orientation was measured in the filament, through the nozzle, and in printed parts using micro-computed tomography. The thermal conductivity of the material was measured and achieved 4.95, 2.38, and 0.75 W/(m·K) at 70 °C in the inflow, crossflow, and thickness directions, respectively. The implications of this anisotropy are discussed using the example of an air-to-water crossflow heat exchanger. The lower conductivity in the crossflow direction reduces thermal performance due to the orientation in thin-walled parts. Full article

Armors and military grade personal protection equipment (PPE) materials to date are bulky and are not designed to effectively mitigate blast impacts. In the current work, a human skin-like castable simulant material was developed and its blast mitigation characteristics (in terms of induced stress reduction at the bone and muscles) were characterized in the presence of composite reinforcements. The reinforcement employed was Kevlar 129 (commonly used in advanced combat helmets), which was embedded within the novel skin simulant material as the matrix and used to cover a representative extremity based human skin, muscle and bone section finite element (FE) model. The composite variations tested were continuous and short-fiber types, lay-ups (0/0, 90/0, and 45/45 orientations) and different fiber volume fractions. From the analyses, the 0/0 continuous fiber lay-up with a fiber volume fraction close to 0.1 (or 10%) was found to reduce the blast-induced dynamic stresses at the bone and muscle sections by 78% and 70% respectively. These findings indicate that this novel skin simulant material with Kevlar 129 reinforcement, with further experimental testing, may present future opportunities in blast resistant armor padding designing. Full article

In this article, the effect of polycaprolactone nanofibers on the dynamic behavior of glass fiber reinforced polymer composites is investigated. The vibratory behavior of composite beams in their pristine state (without any nano modification) and the same beams modified with polycaprolactone fibers is considered experimentally. The experimental results show that the incorporation of polycaprolactone nanofibers increases the damping; however, it does not significantly affect the natural frequencies. Additionally, the paper analyses the effect of polycaprolactone nanofibers on the impact behavior of glass fiber/epoxy composites. This has already been analyzed experimentally in a previous study. In this work, we developed a finite element model to simulate the impact behavior of such composite laminates. Our results confirm the conclusions done experimentally and prove that composites reinforced with polycaprolactone nanofibers are more resistant to damage and experience less damage when subjected to the same impact as the pristine composites. This study contributes to the knowledge about the dynamic behavior and the impact resistance of glass fiber reinforced polymer composites reinforced with polycaprolactone nanofibers. The findings of this study show that interleaving with polycaprolactone nanofibers can be used to control the vibrations and improve the impact damage resistance of structures made of composite mats as aircrafts or wind turbines. Full article

Automated processing techniques such as automated fiber placement (AFP) or automated tape laying (ATL) are well known nowadays. However, there is still a lot of potential for these methods to achieve better results, especially for large and complex composite structures. In this experimental work, the gap effect with the Automated Fiber Placement is shown and a solution to overcome this drawback is presented. The gaps are particularly apparent on complex and/or double-curved surfaces and reduce the mechanical properties of the composite structure. In order to cover the unavoidable weak area of this effect, a plurality of fiber composite layers are laid on top of one another in order to increase the mechanical properties of components. This in turn makes the components heavier and more expensive to produce. In this new method, the gaps are detected by profile sensor after placement of the tape on the mold. The gaps are filled with the aid of a 3D printer with carbon continuous-fiber reinforced plastics. By combining the 3D printing and AFP technology, composite parts can be manufactured in a more homogeneous manner. Subsequently, the components are produced faster, cheaper and even lighter because of the avoidance of the additional layers. Full article