Numerical modeling of deformation and strength of sandwich composite structures with defects

The purpose of this research was to develop a multilevel model for multiscale deformation of three-layer (sandwich) structures made of polymeric composite materials such as plates with a foam based filler. We took into account the micromechanical processes of deformation and damageability in the matrix and reinforcing filler and foam, as well as macroscopic defects such as non-impregnation of the composite skins. First, we did a finite element modeling of stress-strain state, damageability and destruction of the sandwich plates with skins made of hybrid carbon fiber composites, with different types of defect such as non-impregnation, under the flexural uniform pressure. Then we found the characteristic features of the deformation and damageability process in this type of composite structures. Finally, we developed a method which can be used to calculate the deformation, damageability and destruction of sandwich plates made of polymer composite materials applied in various industries: shipbuilding, aviation, rocketry.