Progressive Damage Simulation of Wood Veneer Laminates and Their Uncertainty Using Finite Element Analysis Informed by Genetic Algorithms

Abstract

Within the search for alternative sustainable materials for future transport applications, wood veneer laminates are promising, cost-effective candidates. Finite element simulations of progressive damage are needed to ensure the safe and reliable use of wood veneers while exploring their full potential. In this study, highly efficient finite element models simulate the mechanical response of quasi-isotropic [90/45/0/−45]s beech veneer laminates subjected to compact tension and a range of open-hole tension tests. Genetic algorithms (GA) were coupled with these simulations to calibrate the optimal input parameters and to account for the inherent uncertainties in the mechanical properties of wooden materials. The results show that the continuum damage mechanistic simulations can efficiently estimate progressive damage both qualitatively and quantitatively with errors of less than 4%. Variability can be assessedthrough the relatively limited number of 400 finite element simulations as compared to more data-intensive algorithms utilised for uncertainty quantification.

Keywords

• wood
• finite element analysis
• genetic algorithms
• progressive damage
• open-hole tests
• continuum damage mechanics