Expert Group: Testing Methods and Material Models

For the design of lightweight structures and systems, the knowledge and mathematical description of the process-specific material properties as well as the deformation, damage and failure processes is essential. Due to the testing equipment at the ILK, it is possible to comprehensively record the material and component characteristics. The characterization can be carried out starting with the determination of the thermomechanical properties of the materials, through the analysis of the stiffness and strength properties of the semi-finished products and substructures (see Fig. 1), to extremely complex load tests on structures and systems. For the correct use and further development of the experimental methods and the implementation of the findings in material models and validation strategies, the experience and competences are bundled in the specialist group Testing Methods and Material Models.

Prüfung und Simulation des Schädigungsverlaufs von FKV-Strukturen bei Ermüdungsbelastung – Einfluss der Prüfmaschine — Fig. 01: Testing and simulation of damage of composite structures at cyclic loading – Influence of the test rig.

We thus see ourselves as an open forum for all issues relating to scientific experimentation and description - from the choice of methodology and statistical data evaluation to interpretation and mathematical description (see Fig. 2). In the area of material models, we therefore concentrate on the elucidation and description of the process-structure-property relationships of reinforced and unreinforced materials. In the area of materials and component testing, we devote ourselves to standardized and specially developed methods of destructive and non-destructive materials and component testing and meet the testing challenges of new materials and hybrid functional structures. We place particular emphasis on structure elucidation and damage detection, mechanical material characterization and rotor testing.