On the Dynamic Mechanical Behavior of 3-D Integrated Fabric Reinforced Composites
Abstract
In order to elucidate the role of fiber architecture and test geometry on the impact behavior of 3-D braided composites, 3-D braided preforms having thicknesses varying form 0.3 in. to 1.0 in. were prepared for resin transfer molding with a vinylester resin system. Angle ply composites were fabricated for comparison with the 3-D composites to investigate the role of yarn interlacing in their dynamic impact response. The yarn interlacing was found to play an important role in raising the composites' ability to absorb impact energy, increasing its damage threshold and improving its damage containment. The 3-D network of fibrous reinforcement adds through-thickness strength and creates a complex path for crack growth. The superiority of the 3-D yarn interlacing was most obvious in the thicker structures where the degree of interlacing is more pronounced. During the course of this study, two non- destructive evaluation techniques (x-ray transmission and light transmission) were developed and utilized. X-ray transmission techniques were useful in detecting voids, improper wetting and fiber alignment in the as-molded composite plates. Light transmission was effective in characterizing the extent of damage by showing areas of delamination, debonding and cracking.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 05, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA275424
Entities
People
- Frank K. Ko
- Harry C. Rogers
Organizations
- Drexel University