Progress and challenges in non-linear constitutive modeling for composite materials

Abstract

In this paper is outlined a technique for determining the non-linear constitutive properties of an orthrotropic laminated material such as a fiber reinforced composite. The Characterization of Composites is difficult because of the anisotropic stiffness properties of the material and also because of the complex manner in which they accumulate internal damage and eventually fail. Presented here are techniques for determining the mechanical properties of a material by solving what is known as the Inverse Problem. In such a problem, the response of a material system to an external stimulus is measured, then, this information is used to divine the corresponding material properties of that system. Progress in solving the Inverse Problem for Non-Linear Material Properties is presented as well as challenges that remain.