Study on Infrastructure Applications of FRP Composites By Multi-Scale Virtual Testing

Abstract

The increasing demand for high-speed trains and robust infrastructure has driven the exploration of advanced materials such as Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites. These materials offer enhanced mechanical properties and durability, making them attractive for various applications. However, their implementation requires a comprehensive understanding of their behaviour across multiple scales, from the microstructural level to the macroscopic performance in real-world scenarios. This abstract presents an overview of the research focused on Multiscale Virtual Testing & Experiments of FRP Composites for High-Speed Train and Infrastructure Applications. At the microscale, the complex internal structure of FRP composites poses challenges in predicting mechanical properties accurately. Computational methods, such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA), have been integrated with multiscale modelling techniques to bridge the gap between microstructural features and macroscopic behaviour. Through virtual experiments, the mechanical response of individual constituents and their interactions can be simulated and analysed, enabling the optimization of composite design. Moving to the mesoscale, the interaction between the different components of FRP composites, such as fibers and matrix, becomes crucial. Experimental techniques like Digital Image Correlation (DIC) and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) allow for real-time observations of strain distribution, damage initiation, and progression. These insights aid in validating and refining the multiscale computational models, enhancing their predictive capabilities. At the macroscale, the performance of FRP composites in high-speed train and infrastructure scenarios is of paramount importance. Full-scale physical testing provides essential data for validating virtual simulations. Accelerated loading tests and dynamic impact tests mimic real-world conditions and offer insights into the composite's behaviour under extreme stresses. Combining these physical experiments with multiscale virtual simulations results in a holistic understanding of FRP composites, facilitating the design of lightweight, high-strength materials tailored for high-speed train and infrastructure applications.

This knowledge is crucial for the successful utilization of FRP composites in demanding and safety-critical applications, ultimately contributing to the advancement of high-speed train systems and resilient infrastructure.