A novel method for generating random fiber distributions for fiber-reinforced materials

Abstract

A new algorithm to generate Representative Volume Elements (RVEs) of random fiber distributions is presented in this study. The Random Sequence Expansion (RSE)_stirring algorithm generates the initial fiber random distribution. Subsequently, by stirring the generated fibers and highlighting the influence of fiber short-range spacing interactions, the method facilitates the capture of the real fiber distribution. To verify the soundness of the proposed algorithm, the RVE model, generated by the RSE_stirring algorithm, was analyzed using four statistical functions. The model was then statistically compared with the experimentally obtained real fiber distributions in a Completely Spatial Random (CSR) pattern. In this study, the equivalent modulus of the composite was also predicted using RVE and compared with the results predicted by other algorithms. The experimental and the predicted results showed a strong similarity.