Three Dimensional Microstructural Design of Woven Fabric Composite Materials by the Homogenization Method (1st Report, Effect of Mismatched LayUp of Woven Fabrics on the Strength)

The strength of woven fabric composite materials depends on their microstructural geometry. However, the conventional methods for mechanical analysis, which have been widely used to date, are insufficient because they cannot take into account the three-dimensional microstructure. In this study, the three-dimensional homogenization method is shown to be effective for determination of the material constants, microscopic stresses and strength. It has been found that the transverse stress in the lamination direction plays an important role in the fracture of both the fiber bundle and the resin. Also, the effect of the mismatched lay-up on the strength has been investigated. It was predicted that the mismatched lay-up causes a reduction in strength and a difference of crack initiation in the resin. These simulations provide a new concept for the microstructural design of composite materials.