Finite Element Analysis of Moisture Diffusion into Sandwich Composite Using Thermal-Mass Diffusion Analogy

Abstract

A finite element model was developed in ABAQUS to predict the moisture ingression into sandwich composites due to moisture diffusion. The finite element model was based on thermal-mass diffusion analogy which had been used to develop finite element models for predicting moisture diffusion into small-scale electronics. On the other hand, several sandwich composite specimens were exposed to elevated humidity levels, and the resulting increase in core humidity over time was measured. Predictions based on the ABAQUS analysis were then compared to the experimental measurements and also with predictions of a finite difference scheme developed in-house previously. The trends of predictions by the ABAQUS analysis were found to be in accordance with the experimental results and finite difference predictions, with scope for improved prediction with more accurate material properties.