MIcroscale characterization and modelling of energy DIssipation mechanisms to optimize damping of plant FIbers Composite structures – MIDIFIC

The MIDIFIC project aims to develop new damping optimization strategies for sustainable lightweight structures made of plant fibers. To achieve this task, a detailed characterization and multiscale modelling of their dynamic properties will be performed. Despite the fact that the loss factor of plant fiber reinforced polymer composites is about one decade higher than in other traditional composites that are based on glass or carbon fibers, their use is still restricted to non-structural applications.
To design plant fibers composite structures that combine simultaneously high stiffness and high damping, it is of utmost importance to understand the roles played of each component, in particular that of the fibers and the fiber-matrix interphase in damping performance.
Thus, MIDIFIC proposes to develop and to exploit new experimental methods at the microscale level to achieve breakthrough measurements of the dynamic properties. The physical insights obtained at the microscale will feed multiscale models that can help to predict the dissipative behavior at higher scales. All these tools will be used to gather knowledge and develop innovative methods in the context of structural mechanics. A stochastic multiscale optimization will be performed targeting multi-objectives: stiffness, damping, mass and environmental impact. A proof of concept has to be done on the possibility to maximize simultaneously the damping and stiffness of bio-based composite structures.
Through the paradigm of breakthrough experimental methods at micro-scale to assess damping properties of fibers and the identification of mechanical aspects at interfaces, the MIDIFIC will undertake new paths in the use of plant fibers composite structures. MIDIFIC will also guarantee the environmental sustainability of the proposed composites by integrating environmental criteria into the optimization process. The design of a composite structure demonstrator with maximized damping and stiffness, and minimized mass and global warming potential impact, considering the inherent presence of uncertainty in these materials, reinforces innovative aspects of the proposed method.
MIDIFIC is a unique project in the national territory and it is this strong originality that will leverage the scientific coordinator in the deployment of her research strategies and also provide her with a greater scientific impact both nationally and internationally.