Validation of a Representative Volume Element for unidirectional fiber-reinforced composites: Case of a monotonic traction in its cross section

Based on a Finite Elements Analysis homogenization technique which uses a Representative Volume Element with a random distribution of the fibers, this article presents the adequate characteristics to obtain a mesoscopic model which predicts the mechanical behavior of a unidirectional glass fiber-reinforced polymer composite under monotonic transverse traction. A parametric study is made and finally an appropriate model was chosen to present the comparison between experimental and numerical results. The mesh and the RVE size/fibers size ratio are the most sensitives attributes. Considering the numerical model is in the framework of elasticity and elasto-plasticity, it is in good agreement with the macroscopic response. To improve the accuracy of the model, a further study accounting the interface and damage phenomenons as matrix cracking and fiber/matrix debonding is suggested.