Anisotropy characteristics of electrical conductivity and compressive strength of 3D carbon fiber/epoxy angle-interlock woven composites

Abstract

Electrical and compressive performances are important in 3D carbon fiber/epoxy angle-interlock woven (AIW) composites for mechanical-electrical coupling behaviors. Here we investigate the electrical conductivity and compressive strength of.3D AIW composites both in in-plane and out-of plane. Four-probe method is conducted to measure the volume resistance along different directions. Damage evolution and failure modes are recorded with a high-speed camera during compressive test. Electrical conductivity and compressive strength exhibit obvious anisotropic characteristics due to fiber orientation and yarn waviness. The curved warp yarns result in the compromise of the X-direction conductivity by extending the current transmission length and increase of the Z-direction conductivity by forming more contact points to expand the current flow paths. Because of different yarn arrangements, the compressive failure mechanisms of 3D AIW composites in the X, Y and Z directions are buckling failure, double shear bands and indirect tensile failure, individually. Yarn undulation in the X-direction causes premature buckling and exhibits elastic-plastic nonlinear response, resulting in the lowest compressive strength and modulus. The 3D AIW composites have the lowest electrical conductivity and highest compressive strength in the Z-direction, which is suitable for high strength stress-sensing elements.