Numerical investigation of the fiber/matrix inter-phase damage of a PPS composite considering temperature and cooling liquid ageing

Abstract

AbstractThis paper presents a numerical study of fiber/matrix inter-phase damage of a PolyPhenylene Sulfide with 40%wt of short glass fibers (PPS GF40). Homogenization methods are used to estimate the macroscopic mechanical behavior of composites like glass fiber reinforced PPS. Starting from the study of the mechanical behavior of the PPS matrix, an analytical homogenization was performed. Comparison with composite’s experimental curves showed a good prediction of the elastic behavior. However, differences between experimental and predicted plastic behaviors were highlighted. Finite element analyses considering inter-phase damage were done at different temperatures and for several fiber orientations so to explain differences arising between analytical approach and experimental results. This work allowed a study of the evolution of the impact of this damage on mechanical properties as a function of temperature and fiber orientation. Finally, this work showed the development of a weakening of the fiber/matrix interface for a liquid aged composite and to quantify the decrease of the interface properties.