A simulation of void variation in wood-strand composites during consolidation

The void variation in a wood-strand composite mat during consolidation was simulated using computer-aided design, finite element analysis, and computer image processing. Compared with prior models, this simulation provided a different and more visual approach to analyzing the mat structure, particularly the void variation during consolidation. The simulated results showed similar trends to the experimental data. The size of voids in the final panel decreased with the panel density and increased with the strand thickness, whereas the relationship between the void size and the strand length was non-linear. The wood-strand density and strand thickness had a much greater effect on the non-linear void variation than the wood strand width and length. The simulated results are beneficial to improve the fundamental understanding of composite processing and performance characteristics.