A new mechanism-based temperature-dependent viscoelastic model for unidirectional polymer matrix composites based on Cartan decomposition

A new three-dimensional temperature-dependent viscoelastic constitutive model for unidirectional fiber reinforced, polymer composite materials subjected to small strains is developed in this work. The key point introduce the behavior only where appropriate, based on of underlying constituents: particular, matrix deviatoric response considered viscoelastic, while its volumetric response, as well fibers’ behavior, are elastic. In order achieve this, an irreducible Cartan decomposition stress and strain tensors under hypothesis transverse isotropy derived. integrity basis used formulate energy functional, which enables us define uncoupled laws contributions constituents easily identified. describe composite, a generalized Maxwell applied appropriate terms decomposition, agreement with physical mechanism. Thermal temperature effects introduced through time–temperature superposition principle. Various numerical simulations performed show features presented Abaqus UMAT implemented perform structural simulations.