Polymers and Composites
Plastics
 and simulation using the finite element method (right)', 800, 601,'white'))
From plastics to elastomers to adhesives; MME can provide assistance in material characterization, material selection, part design, product improvement, and failure analysis. MME combines the fundamentals of solid mechanics and polymer science with the latest numerical techniques, including finite element analysis (FEA), to solve complex problems. Typical requests from our clients include issues related to:
- Weight reduction or material distribution
- Resistance to handling loads, e.g. top loading, squeeze, drop impact (e.g., see picture at right), and pressurization
- Thermal degradation
- Creep or stress relaxation
- Environmental stress cracking
- Fatigue
- Custom test development for material samples or products
- Process improvement
Composite Materials and Structures
Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are finding increasing use in non-aerospace applications, such as Civil Engineering, Construction, Transportation, Medical, and Consumer Products. They offer reduced weight, improved strength and fatigue life, corrosion resistance, low conductance, and electromagnetic transparency. However, working with composites requires understanding some key characteristics, which can complicate analysis and testing. For example:)
- Composites fail by gradual accumulation of damage as opposed to the growth of a single crack.
- Delamination within a laminate can reduce stiffness or cause premature failure (e.g., see picture at right).
- Shear deformation in composite structures can increase deflections significantly.
- Finite element analysis (FEA) of laminated composite structures is more complicated than that of isotropic, single-layered materials
Indeed, properly utilizing FRP composites requires a thorough understanding of fiber-matrix interactions, laminated plate/shell behavior, composite product/structure design, and materials engineering. We offer expertise in:
- Laminated structure design and optimization
- Finite element analysis (FEA)
- Strength and life predictions
- Failure analysis Mechanical and structural testing
Contact:
Phone: (678) 730-2000, Fax: (678) 482-9677
Engineering Sciences Division
Metals & Materials Engineers, LLC