Finite Element Modelling of Composite Materials and Structures

Performance prediction is an important factor in ensuring the correct design specification of composite materials. This practical reference fills a substantial need for an introduction to a technique that is quickly becoming a requisite tool for composite materials. The book is based on the well-established course run by the Centre for Composite Materials at Imperial College. It covers the essential characteristics of composite materials and in particular, those of fibre-reinforced plastics. KEY FEATURES: Provides background in the fundamentals of composites and the fundamentals of finite element analysis Presents various strategies for applying finite elements to composites Include case studies