Modeling Short-Range Interactions in Concentrated Newtonian Fiber Bundle Suspensions

Abstract Sheet Molding Compounds (SMC) offer a cost efficient way to enhance mechanical properties of a polymer with long discontinuous fibers, while maintaining formability to integrate functions, such as ribs, beads or other structural reinforcements. During SMC manufacturing, fibers remain often in a bundled configuration and the resulting fiber architecture determines part properties. Accurate prediction of this architecture by simulation …