A multiscale and multiphysical numerical approach for sandwich multiphase hybrid fiber plates with smart composite facesheets

Abstract

This study introduces a comprehensive multiscale and multiphysical numerical approach for analyzing sandwich three-phase nanocomposite plate with multiferroic facesheets in its upper and lower surfaces. The proposed research investigates the zigzag effect and quasi-3D sinusoidal shear deformation, capturing the complex interactions between the core and multiferroic facesheets across multiple physical fields. A distinct feature of the three-phase polymer/CNT/fiber material is the embedding of Carbon Nanotube (CNT) nanofiller within the matrix phase, enhancing the overall properties of the carbon fiber composite. Micromechanical models for three-phase systems are employed to determine the effective elastic properties of the composite core. A unified numerical approach is developed to address the global and local behavior of the structure, capturing the mechanical, electrical, and magnetic coupling effects inherent in multiferroic materials. This model utilizes isogeometric analysis for high-fidelity representation, ensuring precise geometric accuracy and smooth continuity, and incorporates Eringen’s nonlocal strain gradient multiferroic theory to account for size effects. The zigzag effect is characterized by a multiscale kinematic description, where the displacement field is represented by the superposition of coarse and fine contributions. Numerical simulations validate the model, demonstrating its effectiveness in predicting the mechanical, electrical, and magnetic responses of the smart composite plates. This work offers a robust tool for the design and optimization of advanced composite structures in engineering applications.