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The NASA Lewis Research Center has been involved in developing
composite micromechanics and macromechanics theories over the
last three decades. These activities have resulted in several
composite mechanics theories and structural analysis codes whose
applications range from material behavior design and analysis
to structural component response. One of these computer codes,
the Integrated Composite Analyzer (ICAN), is designed primarily
to address issues related to designing polymer matrix composites
and predicting their properties--including hygral, thermal, and
mechanical load effects. Recently, under a cost-sharing cooperative
agreement with a Fortune 500 corporation, Master Builders Inc.,
ICAN was adapted to analyze building materials.
The high costs and technical difficulties involved with the fabrication
of continuous-fiber-reinforced composites sometimes limit their
use. Particulate-reinforced composites can be thought of as a
viable alternative. They are as easily processed to near-net shape
as monolithic materials, yet have the improved stiffness, strength,
and fracture toughness that is characteristic of continuous-fiber-reinforced
composites. For example, particle-reinforced metal-matrix composites
show great potential for a variety of automotive applications,
such as disk brake rotors, connecting rods, cylinder liners, and
other high-temperature applications. Building materials, such
as concrete, can be thought of as one of the oldest materials
in this category of multiphase, particle-reinforced materials.
The adaptation of ICAN to analyze particle-reinforced composite
materials involved the development of new micromechanics-based
theories. A derivative of the ICAN code, ICAN/PART, was developed
and delivered to Master Builders Inc. as a part of the cooperative
activity.
ICAN/PART simulations help Master Builders Inc. early in the development
of new particulate materials for specific needs. These simulations
will expedite the development cycle by reducing extensive trial
and error testing, thereby reducing the costs to bring new materials
to market. The benchmark tests that will be needed can also be
designed or guided as a part of this simulation activity.
Particulate-reinforced composites are prime candidates in many
commercial applications, such as in the automotive and construction
industries. Although our original intention for these NASA codes
was to analyze materials of immediate interest to the aerospace
community, they can easily be modified for nonaerospace, commercial
applications.
Murthy, P.L.N.; Goldberg, R.K.; and Mital, S.K.: Micromechanics for Particulate Reinforced Composites. NASA TM-107276, 1996.
Goldberg, R.K.; Murthy, P.L.N.; and Mital, S.K.: ICAN/PART: Particulate Composite Analyzer, User's Manual and Verification Studies. NASA TM-107297, 1996.
Previous articleLast updated April 30, 1997
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