Computational generation of open-foam representative volume elements with morphological control using distance fields

This paper presents an automated approach to build computationally Representative Volume Elements (RVE) of open-foam cellular materials, enabling the study of the effects of the microstructural features on their macroscopic behavior. The approach strongly relies on the use of distance and level set functions. The methodology is based on the extraction of random tessellations from inclusion packings following predetermined statistical packing distribution criteria. With the help of simple recombination operations on the distance fields, the tessellations are made to degenerate in Laguerre tessellations. Predetermined morphological characteristics like strut cross-section variation based on commercially available materials are applied on the RVE to ensure the extraction of closely matching models using simple surface extraction tools, and a detailed morphology quantification of the resulting RVEs is provided by comparing them with experimental observations. The extracted RVE surface is then treated with smoothening criteria before obtaining a 3D tetrahedralized model. This model can then be exported for multi-scale simulations to assess the effects of microstructural features by an upscaling methodology. The approach is illustrated by the simulation of a compression test on an RVE incorporating plasticity with geometrically non-linear behavior.SCOPUS: ar.j