Axial-Compression performance and finite element analysis of a Tubular Three-Dimensional-Woven Composite from a Meso-structural approach

Abstract

The concept of green environmental protection is becoming increasingly important. This study used green high-performance basalt-fiber filament tows as raw materials to prepare tubular three-dimensional (3D)-woven preforms on a semi-automatic loom. Then, using the prepared preforms for reinforcement and resin as the matrix, a vacuum-assisted resin-transfer method was used to prepare tubular 3D-woven composites with three different internal diameters and layers. Axial-compression experiments were conducted to obtain the tubular 3D-woven composites' load-displacement curves and the energy-absorption capacities. The results reveal that both the inner diameter and the number of layers have significant effects on the composites’ axial-compression properties. As the inner diameter and layers increase, the peak load and energy absorption of tubular 3D-woven composites both have clearly increasing trends. Finally, a finite element analysis from a mesoscale approach was conducted to simulate the axial compression of the tubular 3D-woven composites in comparison with the experimental results. The analysis shows the initial damage, stress evolution, and final failure; it also reveals the stress concentration and failure mechanisms of the composites following the axial compression. Additionally, the preforms used as reinforcements withstand the main loads in the compression process. Finally, the stress-distribution analysis confirms a secondary role for the resin.