Multi-layer advanced fiber hybridisation (glass-carbon-Kevlar) and variable stifiness effect on composite structure responses (stress and deformation): An FE approach

Abstract

In the present study the effect of the single and multilayer advanced fiber hybridization on the composite structural stifiness (deformation resistance capability) and the stress behavior under the variable loading (uniformly distributed and sinusoidal) was analyzed numerically using an isoparametric finite element approach. The hybrid composite panel model was derived in the framework of the higher-order kinematic model to satisfy the inter-laminar stress continuity via the strains. The necessary structural equilibrium equations under the inuence of variable mechanical loadings are derived through the variational principle to compute the panel central point deections, as well as the stress values. The varied structural stifiness and their corresponding deection parameters due to the hybridization of different advanced fibers (carbon/glass/kevlar) are obtained using an in-house MATLAB code by incorporating the necessary elastic constant through the constitutive relationship. Firstly, the previous field studies served as a background and some similar examples are solved to ensure the correctness of the solution, the steadiness of the numerical solution is confirmed and extended further. Finally, the effect of the variable structural parameters relevant to the geometry (thickness ratio, aspect ratio), boundary conditions, and the order of hybridizing layers (glass-carbon-kevlar) on the bending strength is highlighted and explained by solving a series of examples.