Multi-scale analysis of a 2/2-twill woven fabric composite

Abstract

A micro-mechanical unit-cell model was developed for 2/2-twill woven fabric composites. A multi-scale bi-directional micro/macro-mechanical analysis technique was applied to the model in an effort to estimate effective material properties of 2/2-twill composites and decompose the effective stresses (strains) of the woven fabric composite into the stresses (strains) of the tows. When this unit-cell model is incorporated into the multiscale analysis by combining with previously developed modules, the residual strength and stiffness of a laminated structure made of 2/2-twill woven fabric composites can be predicted along with damage progression in the structure. Damage is described at the basic material units of the composite structure, the fibers and matrix. The unit-cell model and the multi-scale analysis were validated by comparing their predicted results to available data in open literature and data obtained from a finite element models.