Peridynamics Based Multiscale Modeling of Damage in Thick Composites Navy SBIR FY2013.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2013.2 Topic No.: N132-101 Topic Title: Peridynamics Based Multiscale Modeling of Damage in Thick Composites Proposal No.: N132-101-0231 Firm: Advanced Cooling Technologies, Inc. 1046 New Holland Avenue Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17601-5688 Contact: Tapan Desai Phone: (717) 295-6817 Web Site: www.1-ACT.com Abstract: Fiber reinforced composites are attractive for several light-weight defense and aerospace applications. However, their inherent anisotropy and complex failure mechanisms limit their use in high-performance structures or components. In order to accurately predict the damage behavior and durability of composite parts exposed to extreme conditions, there is a need to develop new analysis tools that can model the multi-scale interactions within composite parts. In this work, ACT proposes to develop a peridynamics based computational framework which could accurately predict the damage behavior in composites by accounting for the discrete damage processes like matrix cracking, fiber breakage, fiber-matrix shear and delamination. The approach is based on a novel peridynamics methodology which accurately predicts the internal load redistribution arising from local damage and captures the failure of the composite part under different loading conditions. The exact nature of damage evolution and failure will be dependent on complex interactions between the fiber, matrix phases of each ply and inter-ply interactions, in response to the loading environment. This resulting computational framework will enable prediction of damage in naval aircraft components exposed to different loading environments and enable design of better composite structures. Benefits: In addition to addressing Navy's need for damage prediction in composite parts, the proposed research will also be beneficial to aerospace manufacturers, automobile, marine and other commercial industries. The fundamental insights gained in this work and the resulting toolkit (outcome of this project) will provide a computational means to evaluate the damage phenomenon as function of composite microstructure. The tool will also enable improvements to the design process of composites components. ACT will commercialize the developed computational framework for aircraft components by partnering with composite manufacturers in aerospace industry. Return