3D simulation of transversely isotropic laminated composites in RTM using poromechanics

In the present paper we are trying to establish a 3D simulation framework for Resin Transfer Molding for a laminated preform using the already developed porous media theory for composite materials process simulation purposes. The aim here is to implement the process phenomena, such as coupling of sub-processes that are happening simultaneously, in a full 3D description of the problem. For this purpose, an 8-node solid shell element is employed to be able to handle complex 3D stress-strain states. The development is exemplified considering RTM process where the main focus of the modeling will be on the flow advancement into fiber preform and flow front capturing. To this end, the theory of two-phase porous media is used along with assuming hyper-elastic material response for the fiber bed to formulate the problem. A finite element formulation and implementation of the two-phase problem is developed, and the results are presented accordingly.