Multiscale high cycle fatigue models for neat and short fiber reinforced thermoplastic polymers

Two multiscale modeling approaches are proposed to predict the high cycle fatigue (HCF) failure of neat thermoplastic polymers and of short glass fiber reinforced thermoplastics. The modeling is based on the concept of so-called weak spots within the polymer matrix, whose behavior couples viscoelasticity, viscoplasticity and continuum damage mechanics. Scale transition is achieved with nonlinear mean-field homogenization. The predictions are evaluated against experimental results. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.