Determination of deformation of a highly oriented polymer under three-point bending using finite element analysis

The molecular chains of a highly oriented polymer lie in the same direction. A highly oriented polymer is an engineering material with a high strength-to-weight ratio and favorable mechanical properties. Such an orthotropic material has biaxially arranged molecular chains that resist stress in the tensile direction, giving it a high commercial value. In this investigation, finite element analysis (FEA) was utilized to elucidate the deformation and failure of a highly oriented polymer. Based on the principles of material mechanics and using the FEA software, Abaqus, a solid model of an I-beam was constructed, and the lengths of this beam were set based on their heights. Three-point bending tests were performed to simulate the properties of the orthotropic highly oriented polymer, yielding results that reveal both tension failure and shear failure. The aspect ratio that most favored the manufacture of an I-beam from highly oriented polymers was obtained; based on this ratio, a die drawing mold can be developed in the future.