Multi-Scale Micromechanics of Composites

We predict the effective properties of composites from their constituents and microstructure. Micromechanical models are linked to ply-level and structural analysis through multi-scale frameworks. They cover damping, shape memory fibers, nanoparticle-doped polymers, interphase tailoring and rate-dependent behavior.

1. Micromechanics of damping and active fibers
   • Related Publication(s):
     D. A. Saravanos, C. C. Chamis, “Unified Micromechanics of Damping for Unidirectional and Off-Axis Fiber Composites”, Journal of Composites Technology and Research, 12(1), 31–40, 1990.

     V. Birman, D. A. Saravanos, D. A. Hopkins, “Micromechanics of Composites With Shape Memory Alloy Fibers in Uniform Thermal Fields”, AIAA Journal, 34(9), 1905–1912, 1996.

2. Multi-scale frameworks with strain-rate effects
   • Related Publication(s):
     C. Rekatsinas et al., “Micromechanics-based multi-scale framework with strain-rate effects for the simulation of ballistic impact on composite laminates”, Journal of Composite Materials, 58(27), 2897–2914, 2024.
3. Nanocomposite multi-scale models
   • Related Publication(s):
     T. C. Theodosiou, D. A. Saravanos, “Numerical investigation of mechanisms affecting the piezoresistive properties of CNT-doped polymers using multi-scale models”, Composites Science and Technology, 70(9), 1312–1320, 2010.

Applications

• Design of composites with tailored damping or active constituents
• Rate-dependent modeling for impact
• Piezoresistive nanocomposite sensors
• Interphase and processing optimization