Four-scale bridging for the non linear analysis of composites including continuum to discrete linkage

In this paper the multiscale analysis of hierarchical composite with periodic microstructures is presented. The method is illustrated via an applicative example: the multiscale analysis of a SC cable designed for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) is discussed. The classical theory of asymptotic homogenization together with the Finite Element Method is used and extended to obtain the non-linear, temperature dependent material characteristics of the components. Four scales are identified for the example, and at an intermediate scale the mechanics is no more continuous, but becomes discrete. The continuum-to-discrete linkage is thus realized, permitting the analysis at global level via a continuum model.