Multiscale Modeling of Recycled Glass Fiber-Reinforced Thermoplastic Polyamide 6 (PA6) Composites Towards Sustainable Composite Recycling
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This work focuses on closed-loop recycling, specifically examining the mechanical recycling of glass fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polyamide 6 (PA6) composites. The process, utilizing innovative "Thermosaïc®" technology, involves shredding and thermocompressing composite materials to create recycled plates. Additionally, a microstructure generation tool is developed to produce realistic Representative Volume Elements (RVEs) of mechanically recycled composites with a periodic structure. Furthermore, material properties are determined within a framework of full-field periodic homogenization across multiple relevant scales [1]. To address challenges in the nonlinear modeling of recycled composites, we introduce a multiscale modeling strategy tailored for recycled thermoplastic composites, encompassing viscoelasticity, viscoplasticity, and ductile damage within the matrix [2]. Additionally, damage within the composite strands is addressed through the utilization of a continuum damage model. The developed model accurately replicates the results of tensile tests conducted in both the 0° and 90° directions. Since these recycled materials are primarily intended for low-stress applications and designed for use as plates subjected mainly to bending, virtual testing models were developed. These models aim to simulate the behavior of recycled composites, considering both 20x20 mm and 160x20 mm strand dimensions. This approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of how the recycled materials perform under various conditions, enhancing our ability to predict their behavior in practical applications.