An improved mean-field homogenization model for the three-dimensional elastic properties of masonry

Accurate assessment of the overall mechanical behavior of masonry, composed of bricks and mortar joints, remains challenging due to its inhomogeneous and orthotropic nature. In this study, the feasibility of various mean-field homogenization schemes for the three-dimensional orthotropic elastic properties of masonry is comprehensively...

A multiscale and multiphysics numerical framework for modelling of hygrothermal ageing in laminated composites

In this work, a numerical framework for modelling of hygrothermal ageing in laminated composites is proposed. The model consists of a macroscopic diffusion analysis based on Fick's second law coupled with a multiscale FE² stress analysis in order to take microscopic degradation mechanisms into account. Macroscopic material points...

Experimental/numerical characterization of hygrothermal ageing in glass/epoxy composites

In this work, a combined experimental/numerical approach is used to investigate the effect of water ingression in glass/epoxy composite specimens. Interlaminar shear (ILS) specimens were immersed at 50◦C for multiple durations and tested. Re-dried specimens were also tested. Significant strength degradation of up to 50% was found for wet...

Experimental/numerical study of anisotropic water diusion in glass/epoxy composites

In this work a glass/epoxy composite commonly used in wind turbine blades is exposed to a humid environment at an elevated temperature. To research the anisotropic di_usion behaviour observed in unidirectional composite specimens, experimental results of slices cut along the three directional planes of the laminate immersed in demineralised...