Researchers at the Skoltech Center for Design, Manufacturing and Materials in Moscow, Russia, have developed a mathematical model of a thermoplastic composite material chaotically reinforced by short glass fibers.
According to the institute, there is a lack of verified models describing the behavior of polymer composite materials in complex products. This model was reportedly verified by making strength calculations of composite valves and safety devices used in portable chemical tanks.
‘The obtained results indicate that mathematical models of the behavior of composite materials are applicable to ‘virtual tests’ of structures instead of expensive full-scale tests,’ a press release said.
‘The developed model makes it possible to significantly reduce the conservatism of strength calculations in the design and customization of structures, which means to minimize subsequent manufacturing costs, while fulfilling the necessary safety and quality requirements,’ said assistant professor Ivan Sergeichev.
The research has been published in the International Journal of Pressure Vessels and Piping.
This story uses material from Skoltech, with editorial changes made by Materials Today.
