Thermomechanical analysis, modelling and simulation of the forming of pre-impregnated thermoplastics composites

In this paper, the viscoelastic behaviours of pre-impregnated (prepreg) thermoplastic composites are analysed using the bias-extension test. A new constitutive model is proposed in order to simulate the forming of thermoplastic composite prepregs at the macroscopic scale. The model is based on a continuous approach. Hyperelastic behaviours are associated with dry reinforcements. Four principal deformation modes, all considered independent, define the hyperelastic potential: the elongation in warp direction, the elongation in weft direction, the in-plane shear strain and the bending contribution. Experience shows that viscoelastic behaviour is mainly associated with the in-plane shear deformation. A non-linear visco-hyperelastic model based on the generalisation of Maxwell rheological model is considered for this type of deformation mode. The finite element simulation of a stamping case using this model is introduced. The influence of temperature on the forming stage and the performance of the model are evaluated. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.