Modelling low-velocity impact damage and compression after impact of 3D woven structures considering compaction

S.L.J. Millen, M. Dahale, T. Fisher, A. Samy, K. Thompson, K. Ramaswamy, C. Ralph, E. Archer, A. McIlhagger, Z. Ullah*, B.G. Falzon

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

6 Citations (Scopus)
53 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

A novel finite element modelling approach is presented which incorporates representative binder yarn compaction, for simulating the low-velocity impact (LVI) and compression after impact (CAI) response of 3D woven layer-to-layer carbon/epoxy composite architectures. Simulations of out-of-plane drop-weight impact tests were performed at energies of 32 J and 42 J. Warp and weft layers were modelled as continuous plies and three different approaches were explored to model the binder reinforcement; (i) with a rectangular cross-section and non-compacted, (ii) with an elliptical cross-section and non-compacted, and (iii) an elliptical cross-section which accounts for compaction. Predictions were compared with experimental results from literature and it is shown that modelling the binder reinforcement as an elliptical cross-section with compaction leads to a predicted damage area, on the impacted side, which is within 2%, and the non-impacted side within 6% of experimental measurements. The predicted CAI strength is within 11% of the experimental values.
Original languageEnglish
Article number117104
Number of pages13
JournalComposite Structures
Volume318
Early online date12 May 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Aug 2023

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