Effect of interlocking pattern on short beam strength of 3D woven composites

Abstract

Natural fiber-based preforms possess various attractive characteristics in different applications due to their light weight, value for money and compatibility with the environment. The possible tailorable shapes and mechanical properties make these more attractive for composites applications. Earlier, researchers focused on characterizing preforms for composites, but this work emphasis on the outcome of the weave patterns on composites performance. Mechanical performance (especially shear beam strength) of the 3D layer-to-layer and through-the-thickness prefroms with different interlocking patterns was deliberated. Composites were fabricated using 3D woven jute preforms and green epoxy system. The diverse performance of composites was compared. The effect of weave pattern remained prominent in their composites.