Methods for the Numerical Modelling of the Adhesive Interlayer of Sandwich-Sheets in Case of Coupled Thermo-Mechanical FE-Analysis

Bending of multilayered sheets like lightweight sandwich sheets or fiber reinforced thermoplastics is dominated by the mechanism of interply-slip. FE-analysis is performed to predict defects depending on this mechanism. The shear and damage behavior of the adhesive layer of sandwich sheets can be modeled by cohesive elements in Abaqus. Forming simulation of fiber reinforced thermoplastics requires coupled thermo-mechanical analysis methods due to temperature dependence. For this, alternative modeling strategies for the inner layer of adhesive or polymer matrices will be tested in this paper that are able to transfer heat. The layer will be presented by solid elements with enriched property definitions or viscoplasticity. Furthermore the thickness of the layer will be neglected and replaced by contact formulations or spring elements.