RVE modeling

A special type of numerical simulation is RVE modeling. RVE stands for Representative Volume Element and refers to a small volume element that is representative of the entire material. RVE modeling is used at Fraunhofer IMWS to investigate the behavior of materials at the micro level. A representative volume element is selected from the material and modeled on this element.

RVE modeling makes it possible to predict the behavior of the entire material based on the behavior of the representative volume element. This can help characterize important properties of the material, such as strength, stiffness, elongation, fracture behavior, and thermal properties. By using RVE models, the behavior of materials under different loads, temperatures, or environments can be better understood and optimized. This contributes to the development of new materials and the improvement of existing materials.