advantages CheFEM compared to other FEM software

Thread by Pierre Garnier on 16 Sep 2010 at 16:24:01 
Dear All:

I am interested in a more throughout description of the advantages of CheFEM compared to existing FEM packages like Abaqus, Ansys and Nastran. All these packages also include mass diffusion and solubility properties, corrosion rates, also applicable in a wide range of polymer based configurations.

From the CheFEM section, I clearly understand that the input of the FEM module are chemical potentials (instead of stress and strain in the other packages), but the theoretical and practical consequences of this approach (besides the dealing with vapours and supercritical gases) are not crystal clear to me.

Could you explain?

Thanks,
Pierre Garnier

    Comment by Composite Analytica on 13 Oct 2010 at 14:04:46  | |responses: 1|
    Dear Pierre,

    In a nutshell, CheFEM adds chemical thermodynamic interaction into nowadays FEM based composite service life analysis. The presence of chemicals at the composite surface or inside the composite (as a result of diffusion or capillary processes) gives rise to expansion stresses, corrosion phenomena, accumulation of chemicals at certain spots, etc.

    CheFEM quantifies the forthcoming chemical potentials and concentrations in the time-space domain. Subsequently this matrix is used in FEM based lifetime and fracture analysis (where mechanical stresses and strains are incorporated) and for (fugitive) emission calculation.

    Hope this clarifies the program. Please let us know if the previous is unclear / if you have further questions.

    PS hereby some very early, but still interesting publications:osmosis in composite materials and GFRP Rods in Concrete

    Kind Regards,
    Composite Analytica


      Comment by Pierre Garnier on 18 Oct 2010 at 14:32:13  | |responses: 0|
      Thanks for the prompt reply!

      Also sounds quite useful for service life prediction (emission and failure assessment) of FRP tanks and pipes for containment of acids, alkali and strong solvents (glycerol). Is there any case study on GRP laminate?

      Pierre