Mechanisms of in-plane shear deformation in hybrid 3D woven composites

Abstract

The in-plane shear response of a hybrid 3D woven composite laminate is studied and the deformation and failure micromechanisms are analyzed by means of full-field strain measurements and X-ray microtomography. It was found that the laminate presented a very high failure strain (38%), much higher than that of conventional 2D laminates, and extensive damage was found to develop during deformation in the form of matrix/fiber debonding and tow splitting by shear. Nevertheless, the through-thickness reinforcement hindered the development of failure by interply delamination and improved the ductility. Final fracture took place by tensile fiber failure and the strain to failure was enhanced by the higher ductility of the glass fibers.