Mean field homogenization in multi-scale modelling of composite materials

Purpose: The paper is focused on testing of the capabilities of the mean field homogenization scheme in numerical analysis of composite materials. Another goal of this research is an attempt of coupling of mean field homogenization procedure with finite element computations to carry out a multi-scale analysis Design/methodology/approach: This research is based on the application of the DIGIMAT software which is material modelling platform. The Mori-Tanaka homogenization scheme implemented in DIGIMAT code was applied to obtain the average composite’s mechanical properties. Additional aspect is coupling of DIGIMAT material modeller with finite element solver. Findings: Application of mean field homogenization allows to obtain the effective properties of heterogeneous material very efficiently. Process of assigning material parameters to each composite’s phase on the micro level is operative and fast. Coupling homogenization procedure with finite element solver leads to full multi-scale analysis where material nonlinearities can be taken into account Research limitations/implications: Mean field homogenization gives approximate results, therefore detailed stress and strain fields in microstructure can not be analysed. Practical implications: Methodology presented in present article shows efficient approach to finding effective composite properties and in addition allow to carry out nonlinear multi-scale analysis. Originality/value: The paper presents new methodology which is intensively developed in the field of numerical simulation of structures and materials. The material parameters are not treated as the constant input data, but are obtained as results of the material parameters modelling process on the micro-scale level.