Challenges in Composite Material Analysis Using FEM

This technical article addresses the challenges associated with the analysis of composite materials using finite element method (FEM) simulation software. It outlines the unique properties of composite materials, which differ significantly from metallic materials, leading to difficulties in material modeling, finite element modeling, and the evaluation of fracture and damage. The article discusses three primary issues: the complexity of material combinations that hinder the creation of a general material database, the challenges in developing finite element models due to varying fiber orientations and molding histories, and the difficulties in accurately simulating fracture behavior due to heterogeneous material structures. Furthermore, the article introduces new solutions developed by CYBERNET in collaboration with Ansys Software to address these challenges. These solutions include the Multiscale.Sim tool, which facilitates multiscale analysis and improves the accuracy of material behavior predictions, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of composite material analysis.