Abstract
In this work, the modeling of triaxially braided composites was explored through a subcell approach using an improved semianalytical discretization scheme. The unit cell of the braided composite was divided into four unique subcells, each approximated by a mosaic stacking of unidirectional composite plies and modeled through the use of layered-shell elements within the finite-element model. Two subcell discretization schemes were investigated: a model explicitly capturing pure matrix regions, and a model which absorbed pure matrix pockets into neighboring tow plies. Differences in the mesostructure between single-ply and multi-ply braid coupons were addressed through modifications to the subcell discretization. The absorbed matrix model simulated the unique out-of-plane deformations observed experimentally in single-ply tensile tests with acceptable moduli predictions. An investigation of single-shell versus multi-shell coupons for the analysis of multi-ply braids revealed the through-thickness modeling approach was found to have a significant effect on the apparent transverse modulus. Improved moduli predictions in both the axial and transverse directions were obtained by explicitly modeling braided plies with individual layers of shell elements.
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Published In
Journal of Aerospace Engineering
Volume 28 • Issue 5 • September 2015
Copyright
© 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Feb 17, 2014
Accepted: Jun 11, 2014
Published online: Aug 20, 2014
Discussion open until: Jan 20, 2015
Published in print: Sep 1, 2015
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