A probabilistic elasticity model for long fiber reinforced thermoplastics with uncertain microstructure

The present study deals with uncertainties in the material response of long fiber reinfoced thermoplastics (LFT). In an experimental study, the mechanical response of the material is investigated in direction longitudinal and perpendicular to the fiber preference orientation. Using an optical grey-scale correlation system, local strain measurements on the surface of regular tensile specimens are performed. From the results, local stress-strain curves and material parameters are derived. The results reveal a distinct local variability of the mechanical response of the material due to the variability in the local fiber orientation and fiber density. Based on the experimental observations, a probabilistic elasticity model for LFT materials is proposed. This model allows a numerically efficient virtual prediction of the effect of microstructural disorder of LFT materials on the macroscopic response of structures and structural components.