۱- Introduction

۲- Method

۳- Model

۴- Results

۵- Conclusion

References

Abstract

This paper presents a multi-scale progressive failure modeling scheme to analyze the damage behaviors of 3D angle-interlock woven composites under uniaxial tension. The macro-scale progressive damage model is established based on a meso-scale representative volume cell (RVC) model by using the inhomogeneous finite element method. In current model, a modified Puck criterion for fiber yarn and parabolic yield criterion for the matrix are chosen to be the damage initiation and propagation criteria, which can clearly describe the fiber breakage, inter-fiber fracture and matrix crack in the level of the fiber yarn and the matrix. The tensile effective elastic properties and the failure strength as well as the damage evolution process of this 3D woven composite are predicted. A series of uniaxial tensile tests are conducted to validate the macro-scale progressive damage model. Experimental and numerical results are compared and discussed.

Introduction

The 3D woven composite is a typical inhomogeneous material consists of reinforced fiber and matrix. It exhibits anisotropic properties as a whole although the reinforced fiber and matrix in component materials are considered as transversely isotropic and isotropic, respectively. The mechanical properties of fiber with high modulus and high strength have been brought into full play under the support of matrix. Compared with the conventional laminated composites, 3D woven composites have the prospect of long-term application in industrial fields like aeronautics, space and civil construction owning to their robust mechanical properties in the thickness direction, excellent damage tolerance and perfect impact resistance [1][2]. The microstructures of 3D woven composites are determined largely by the fiber architecture to the woven preform and weaving process as well as the consolidation process [3]. However, microstructural defects like distortion, abrasion and breakage of the yarns, voids and resin-rich areas are unintentionally produced during the manufacturing process of 3D woven composites that can seriously affect material performance. To predict and measure the mechanical properties of 3D woven composites accurately, extensive damage models and failure tests have been conducted and developed by researchers. In the 1980s, Tensile mechanical properties of 3D and laminated fabric Kevlar 49/epoxy composites are compared experimentally.