Bridging Cell Method for Multiscale Modeling of Complex Mechanics in Solids

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The proposed research involves the development of a multiscale technique for modeling the damage in fibre reinforced polymer composites at high temperatures, as well as damage resulting from high temperature fabrication of ceramic nanocomposites. At high temperatures, the behaviour of these materials is complex due to changes in their structure at the atomic scale. Currently, the structural performance of these materials is investigated through expensive and time consuming experiments or is simulated using empirical-based models that do not accurately account for the underlying physics of the problem. Thus, in the proposed research, a novel multiscale technique will be developed that couples atomistic and structural level modeling capable of simulating these complicated systems. It will provide an effective means of modeling and understanding the complex damage mechanics and will also suggest new theoretical developments in the composite and nanocomposite fields. Furthermore, this computational technique will be employed to design and fabricate new and innovative material solutions. The multiscale technique being developed through the proposed research will progress based on an engineering-oriented approach to meet the needs of the inevitable transition of advanced material developments from that of pure sciences to practical real world applications. Such applications being actively researched include the use of high temperature composites in demanding environments, such as aircraft engines and airframes, as well as the use of ceramic nanocomposites in biomaterials (e.g. bone replacement). This growing demand, along with the increased integration of advanced composites and nanocomposites in aerospace and biomedical industries, will ensure that the design and implementation of these materials, through accurate multiscale modeling techniques, will bring competitive advantages to Canadian companies in the rapidly growing global market.