Computer Aided Design and analysis of Unidirectional Fibrous Composites

Abstract

A Unidirectional fibrous composite consists of parallel fibers embedded in a matrix. Several unidirectional layers can be stacked in a specified sequence to fabricate a laminate.

In the present work, a computer integrated approach is done for the design and analysis of Unidirectional fibrous composites. A computer software is written to predict the longitudinal strength and stiffness, transverse strength and stiffness, shear modulus, Poissons’ ratio, thermal expansion coefficient and moisture expansion coefficient for the chosen volume fraction and material of matrix and fiber. The software incorporates an in built libraries of materials for both fibers and matrix. This gives an ease in selection and also provides vide variety of combinations. Materials can also be specified by the user, mentioning their engineering properties.

The package also deals with the theoretical aspects of Unidirectional fibrous composites in the precursor. In this county the basic definitions and nomenclature is explained through animated demos and graphics screens. This gives an on-line reference of the theory involved in the design of Unidirectional fibrous composites.